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After 13 years former NBA star Michael Jordan has agreed on a sale of the Charlotte Hornets to a group led by Hornets minority owner Gabe Plotkin and Atlanta Hawks minority owner Rick Schnall. Rapper J. Cole and country singer Eric Church will also be part of the new ownership group. An agreement is expected to be signed in...
The AI-powered chatbot that has the world by a chokehold is teaming up with the luxury car line Mercedes, bringing their cars existing voice assistant to become more fluid and natural.
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https://www.dailyo.in/technology/mercedes-benz-is-adding-chatgpt-to-your-car-assistant-to-talk-to-you-while-driving-40167
Trevor Noah, former host of "The Daily Show," has announced that he will be hosting a new podcast on Spotify. "The weekly podcast will blend Trevor's signature humor and razor-sharp wit with his global perspective to deliver a unique take on the hottest and most captivating topics of the moment," a press release for the show stated. The podcast...
Tennessee State University announced it was adding a club men's hockey team, making it the first HBCU to introduce a college hockey program. The Nashville-based school said the men's team will start play as a club program in 2024. TSU said its goal is to eventually field both a Division I men's and women's team. "Bringing ice hockey to...
Actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are joining Otro Capital and RedBirds Partners in an investor group to acquire an equity stake in Alpine Racing. The duo will own a twenty-four percent stake in the sport. With the $218 million investment, the value of Alpine Racing is now estimated at $900 million. Reynolds leads Maximum Effort Investments, along with...
Houston native Beyonce and Kelly Rowland are making a huge impact in their hometown. The two are collaborating to create 31 permanent housing units for Harris County's unhoused population.
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https://www.stereogum.com/2228743/beyonce-kelly-rowland-are-going-to-help-build-homes-for-houstons-unhoused-community/news/
In 2018, Ayesha Curry partnered with her sister-in-law Side Curry-Lee to launch their wine brand, Domaine Curry. The brand has recently sold to Constellation Brands for an undisclosed amount to enhance and expand its footprint.
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https://afrotech.com/scottie-beam-sylvia-obell-raedio-issa-rae
It looks like Tyler Perry has won the heart of the decision makers handling the purchasing process for BET. Over the last several months we've heard multiple individuals which included, Diddy, 50 Cent, Byron Allen and more as potential buyers. Tyler Perry will take control of BET Media Group for an undisclosed amount. When the deal is finalized it...
Not only known for his love of basketball, but also Candy. Giannis Antetokounmpo made it more evident than ever! Purchasing a candy company. Putting his newly established Ante Inc company to work, The Antetokounmpo brothers have become major stakeholders in Candy Funhouse, a Canadian brand that recently launched an American website and is looking for a more global footprint.
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Snoop Dogg and Petco have teamed up for a new advertising campaign that spotlights the value Petco offers when it comes to caring for pets' whole health. The campaign is the newest iteration of the brand's long standing "It's What We'd Want If We Were Pets" platform, which personifies pets with human actors to affirm Petco's commitment to delivering...
The award-winning actress and comedian will initially executive produce two original unscripted series. The first is a documentary about a successful women who had a long romantic relationships with homeless men. The second project will be about psychotherapist, author, and lecturer Elliot Connie. "I've partnered with HMPG on these projects to make a difference in people's lives," Haddish said...
Chubbies, the weekend-centric lifestyle apparel brand, announced the first of four product launches with NFL tight end George Kittle. Kittle began wearing the Chubbies brand over a decade ago while in college. The Summer 2023 drop features four unique pieces including a gym short, t-shirt, performance polo, and swim trunks that feature a signature sunflower print co-designed by Kittle....
NASA will award more than $5 million in funding to seven Women's Colleges and Universities to research and develop strategies that increase retention of women in STEM degree programs and careers. The agency's Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) created the opportunity to help women overcome obstacles and barriers to wring in the fields of science, technology, engineering,...
Apple announced a new virtual reality headset called Apple Vision Pro. While the product won't hit shelves until next year, the new headset showed a variety of uses including 3D apps, immersive movies, education content, web surfing, and video games. With a price tag of $3,499, the product immediately becomes the priciest and most advanced VR headset on the...
HBO and Words + Pictures have started production on a documentary about Barry Bonds, one of the most polarizing figures in baseball. "The untitled HBO Sports Documentary will tell the story of Barry Bonds, baseball's single-season and all-time run king, from his beginnings as the son of All-Star Baby Bonds, and godson of the iconic Willie Mays, all the...
Future, Atlanta native is using his platform to serve the community. The rapper and his 'Freewishes Foundation' is opening up a new STEAM lab for students in underserved communities in an effort to combat the educational gap many students in underserved communities often struggle with when it comes to adequate technological infrastructure in their schools.
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Hip-Hop icon, Snoop Dogg collaborates with Hollingsworth Family Gracie's Corner to empower kids through songs, raps and dances. Snoop continues to expand his footprint in different sectors. We love to see it!
Ashé Audio Ventures, the new podcast label from Viola Davis and Julius Tennon's JuVee Productions, has reached an exclusive multi-project deal with Audible. Scripted and unscripted original audio programming from Ashé will begin releasing in 2024. The projects are expected to include genres like self-development and audio theater, with a focus on work from up-and-coming talent.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/viola-davis-podcast-ashe-audio-ventures-audible-1235501926/
Elite Sports Equity, an investment firm, has teamed up with The Barcelona Dragons. Elite Sports ownership includes technology entrepreneur Jason Robinson, Super Bowl MVP Malcolm Smith, investor Marcelia Freeman, and real estate developer Martin Roache. The union between both entities arises with the objective of uniting the passion for American football based on the values of sharing the same...
Recently retired NFL defensive back Devin McCourty has joined the broadcast team of NBC's "Football Night in America". The three-time Super Bowl champion spent 13 seasons with the New England Patriots and made the Pro Bowl two times. McCourty recently served as guest host on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football" and also co-hosted the "Double Coverage" podcast with his...
LSU forward Angel Reese has signed her first beauty deal with haircare brand Mielle Organics. The basketball star will be the face of the haircare brand online and at in person events, and will also curate a limited-edition bundle of her favorite Mielle Organics products that will retail later this summer. "The confidence, boldness, and resilience she embodies on...
San Diego has been handed an expansion franchise, increasing Major League Soccer to thirty teams. The new franchise will debut in 2025 at Snapdragon Stadium. Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, and Padres star Manny Machado will be owners of the team. San Diego is also home to the National Women's Soccer League's San...
ESPN has announced the start of production on a Serena Williams series, called In the Arena: Serena Williams. The series promises to be "the most complete, intimate, and compelling account of her legendary career, featuring perspectives from the Serena and key figures throughout her life." The series is co-produced by ESPN, Tom Brady's 199 Productions, and Williams.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/serena-williams-docuseries-espn-1235492979/
Montana has become the first state to ban the popular app TikTok. Platforms that offer the app on their marketplaces, such as the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, will be subjected to fines up to $10,000 a day for violations. The ban will take effect January 1st, 2024.
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https://www.npr.org/2023/05/18/1176805559/montana-tiktok-ban
The North Road Company, the content house founded by Peter Chernin has purchased a minority stake in Peyton Manning's Omaha Productions said to be around $10 million. The two will become strategic partners expanding into media-adjacent consumer businesses.
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https://deadline.com/2023/05/peter-chernin-north-road-peyton-manning-omaha-productions-1235371049/
Fanatics has agreed to buy the U.S. operations of sports betting company PointsBet, marking the sports giant's first major leap into U.S. sports betting. The deal is worth about $150 million in cash. "Fanatics and PointsBet are excited to enter into an agreement for Fanatics Betting and Gaming to acquire PointsBet's U.S. business," the companies said in a joint...
Veteran quarterback Matt Ryan has joined CBS Sports as an NFL analyst. Ryan will work as both a studio and game analyst across all CBS Sports platforms. Ryan announced the role on his twitter, clarifying that he is not retiring from the NFL just yet. The former league MVP has played 15 seasons, 14 of them with the Atlanta...
Elon Musk has named media executive Linda Yaccarino as the new CEO of Twitter. Yaccarino will be leaving her role as chairman of global advertising and partnership at NBCUniversal. "I'm excited to welcome Linda Yaccarino as the new CEO of Twitter!" Musk wrote in a tweet. He said she "will focus primarily on business operations, while I focus on...
W. Kamau Bell has launched a new production company, Who Knows Best, and signed an overall deal with Boardwalk Pictures. The Emmy-winning producer founded the Oakland-based company with the mission of "fostering a diverse creative community and telling revolutionary non-fiction stories by any medium necessary." WKB also launches with a multi-year overall deal with Boardwalk Pictures. "I'm super excited...
OWNERSHIP! The seven-time Super Bowl champion is in deep discussions to become a limited partner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Brady announced his second NFL retirement in February is already making business moves to become part of the ownership group. He has already purchased a minority stake in the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces in March. Brady is looking to...
Iconic rapper, Ludacris is partnering with Kellogg's "Rice Krispies Treats" to support Boys & Girls Clubs of America to foster moments of IRL connection nationwide. The idea circles around Ludacris being a GirlDad and making memories with loved ones.
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https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-kelloggs-rice-krispies-treats-brand-and-ludacris-drop-treat-eat-compete-game-set-to-turn-snacktime-into-playtime-with-the-whole-family-301817527.html
Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter, the co-founded and singer of the Roots, has announced his first-ever memoir: The Upcycled Self: A Memoir on the Art of Becoming Who We Are. The book will debut November 14th through One World. The memoir looks are the four powerful relationships that shaped Black Though as he was growing up and on through childhood.
Source:...
Pottery Barn has tapped Ayesha Curry's lifestyle brand Sweet July for an exclusive homeware collaboration. The collection is inspired by summer celebrations and embraces a range of neutral tones with pops of bold and rich terracotta for an elevated, modern look that mix and match seamlessly. "Our collaboration with Ayesha Curry has been so organic and inspiring because we...
Springhill, the company founded by LeBron James and his longtime friend Maverick Carter is in talks to potentially acquire Complex Networks, the hiphop and pop culture media outlet currently owned by Buzzfeed. It's reported the deal could be up to $100 million for the Complex which is only a third of what BuzzFeed paid for Complex in 2021.
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Greenwood, the digital banking platform for Black and Latino individuals and businesses, acquired Kinly a digitally native neobank building generational wealth for Black America and its allies, bringing the two largest fintechs focused on the Black community together as one company.
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https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230502005800/en/Greenwood-Acquires-Kinly-A-Mobile-Banking-Platform-to-Bring-Together-Two-of-The-Largest-Black-Owned-Fintechs
Ruth's Chris the restaurant known across the country for their stuffed chicken is being acquired by Darden Restaurants. The company has 154 locations worldwide, including 80 company-owned or operated restaurants and 74 franchised restaurants. Darden Restaurants owns Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze and Eddie V's
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Former First Lady Michelle Obama recently announced that she has co-founded a new company to make and sell healthier food and drinks for kids. Mrs. Obama is a co-founded and strategic partner of PLEZi Nutrition. She will work behind the scenes on its education and philanthropic efforts, but is not expected to be a spokesperson or public face of...
R&B singer Brent Faiyaz and Steve Stoute of UnitedMasters have agreed on a new partnership to form a new creative agency as a hub for his upcoming projects. The deal is valued around $50 million according to a Billboard source. "Brent Faiyaz is one of the most prolific independent artists today, and we are extremely excited to embark on...
The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, is honoring his Ethiopian roots with a new, limited-release coffee and product line called Samra Origins. The R&B singer has partnered with Blue Bottle Coffee for the new line that will debut on May 9th. Named after the singer's mother, Samra Tesfaye, the line will feature Exceedingly Rare Ethiopia Wolde Faye...
Retired NFL star J.J. Watt and his wife Kealia Ohai Watt are joining the ownership team for English soccer team Burnley FC. "When you invest in a club that's been around since 1882, you must have great respect for its history and tradition," the Watts said in a statement. "We understand that not only are we investing in the...
Bishop T.D Jakes is on mission to keep POC groups ahead of the game. His new partnership with Wells Fargo will create communities for people at all different income levels. The group has committed up to $1 billion to spearhead various projects to foster community development. The first project will be a mixed-income housing and retail development on a...
Hip-hop legend and entrepreneur Snoop Dogg has joined businessman Neko Sparks' bid to buy the Ottawa Senators. Snoop is one of more than a dozen investors including several people of color. Sparks would be the first Black owner in NHL history.
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https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/36525936/snoop-dogg-joins-neko-sparks-bid-buy-ottawa-senators
Golden Globe winning actress Tracee Ellis Ross will receive an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from Spelman College. Ross has been supporting the liberal arts college for years, including speaking with students about the importance of authenticity and the need for more diversity in Hollywood. The "Black-ish" star will receive the diploma at the upcoming Spring commencement ceremony...
The Phoenix Suns superstar has agreed with Nike on a lifetime endorsement deal. Durant's first involvement with the Swoosh brand dates back to 2007 when he signed with the company as a rookie with the Seattle Supersonics. The lifetime partnership will continue to include footwear, apparel, and a community and philanthropic collaboration focused on grassroots basketball. Durant joins LeBron...
Rookie quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, Bryce Young, has signed with Jordan Brand. The number one overall pick selected the Michale Jordan-led Swoosh subsidiary, joining fellow NFL players like Dak Prescott and Deebo Samuel. Over the course of his college NIL career, Young has endorsed Beats by Dre, Dr. Pepper, and Nissan. The Heisman winner will take part in...
Fireside, the interactive entertainment app, has raised $25M valuing the business at $138 million post-money. Investors included Paris Hilton, Tin Connors, Zeke Bronfman, Evan Abraham and many more. The company hopes to bring its interactive technology to smart TVs, Fire TV, Apple TV and Roku.
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https://techcrunch.com/2023/04/26/mark-cuban-backed-streaming-app-fireside-confirms-25m-series-a-at-138m-valuation/
Grammy-winning singer and actress Toni Braxton is extending her decade-long relationship with Lifetime and A+E. Braxton's company, Braxtoni Productions, will oversee and executive produce multiple projects for the network. Braxton has starred in and produced numerous Lifetime movies, "Lifetime has been home to my film and TV projects for the past decade. My team and I are looking forward...
Issa Rae will be honored with the Peabody Trailblazer Award, while Lily Tomlin will receive the organizations Career Achievement Award at the Peabody Awards in June. "We're thrilled to recognize Issa and Lily for not only their extraordinary contributions to storytelling, but also for their important role and place for women in comedy and entertainment," said Jeffrey Jones, executive...
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is the newest ambassador the Callaway Golf. Callaway Golf is one of the most popular golf brands, which primarily sells clubs, bags, gloves, golf caps, and balls. NBA star Stephen Curry also has a partnership with the golf brand. Herbert will appear in social media content as well as use the products on...
A basketball league aspiring to be the second-biggest in the world, is getting a boost from NBA Star. O.G Anunoby is purchasing a minority stake in the London Lions of the British Basketball League. The team is private-equity owned. Anunoby became the first British player to win an NBA championship in 2019 when the Raptors beat the Golden State...
Mansa, a company founded by actors David Oyelowo, Chiké Okonkwo, Nate Parker and tech entrepreneur Zak Tanjeloff. The company is a free as-supported streaming service and content aggregator that offers a curated selection of Black cultural content. Recently closed an $8 million seed round which saw investments from Robert F. Smith, Jeffrey Katzenberg's WndrCo, and many more is looking...
Gayle King and Charles Barkley will host a new, primetime show on CNN this fall called King Charles. The live show is set to debut later this year and run through 2024. The show is listed as a discussion show that will feature all kinds of conversations, including politics, but that will not be the only focus of the...
Hana Kuma, the media company founded by tennis star Naomi Osaka and Stuart Duguid, has raised $5 million in a new fundraising round. Hana Kuma is now a spinoff from The SpringHill Co., which helped launch it less than a year ago. Investors in the new round include SpringHill, Epic Games, and Fenway Sports Group. "We really want to...
Louis Vuitton has revealed Zendaya as the mansion's newest house ambassador, becoming the face of their iconic Capucines bag. The Capucines handbag has become a defining silhouette for the luxury fashion house. "It's really beautifully made and durable," Zendaya told Vogue magazine. "If I buy something I want it to really last me."
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lifestyle/style/zendaya-louis-vuitton-house-ambassador-new-campaign-1235398355/
Tally Health, a revolutionary consumer biotechnology company is creating change in the way we age, has closed their seed round. the fund included investments from John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Pedro Pascal, Shonda Rhimes, Kevin Hart, and Rich Roll. They are tapping in the longevity space which has exploded in recent years.
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https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/consumer-longevity-company-tally-health-announces-10m-seed-round-led-by-forerunner-ventures-with-celebrity-participation-301791242.html
Walmart has sold menswear brand Bonobos to brand management firm WHP Global and Express in a $75 million deal. It's the second time this year the retail giant has offloaded a direct to consumer brand after selling Moosejaw in February to Dick's Sporting Goods. WHP, which recently acquired a 60% stake in the Express brand IP this past year,...
The WNBA and The E.W. Scripps Company have signed a new, multi-year agreement to televise games on Friday nights during the regular season on ION. ION is a national entertainment network that reaches every U.S. TV household over-the-air and on all major pay TV and connected TV services. "WNBA Friday Night Spotlight on ION" will feature WNBA games during...
Michael Jordan's 1998 NBA Finals Air Jordan 13 sneakers sold for a record $2.2 million to Sotheby's. The sneakers were gifted from Jordan to a Utah Jazz ball boy. "Today's record-breaking result further proves that the demand for Michael Jordan sports memorabilia continues to outperform and transcend all expectations," said Brahm Watcher, Sotheby's head of streetwear and modern collectibles....
The Washington Commanders are nearing a sale to ownership group led by Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils Owner Josh Harris at around $6 billion. The deal still has to be submitted and approved by the NFL's finance committee, and at least three-quarters of the other teams owners would have to approve of the sale. If the deals goes...
Warner Bros. Discovery is combining HBO Max and Discovery+ content to form a new streaming service. Launching May 23rd, "Max" will combine scripted HBO programs with Discovery's unscripted staples. Pricing for the new service will remain the same as current HBO Max plans. "Max is the one to watch, because it's home to shows that have a supersized effect...
Retired NBA player Jeff Teague, MLB outfielder Tommy Pham and NFL defensive lineman Yannick Ngakoue has acquired ownership stakes in USL championship club Loudoun United FC. They will join a group of athletes that include; Landon Donovan, Tim Howard and Marshawn Lynch.
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https://www.loudoununitedfc.com/news/2023/04/12/d-c-united-announce-group-led-by-local-real-estate-executive-jordan-stuart-has-taken-an-ownership-stake-in-loudoun-united-fc/
WNBA star Brittney Griner is working on a new memoir about her ten months as a Russian prisoner. The book is scheduled to be released in Spring 2024. The memoir is going to be an "intimate and moving" look into her wrong detainment (classified by the State Department) and learning to navigate the Russian legal system according to the...
R&B singer Omarion will be starring in a new show loosely based on his life from AMC Network streamer AllBlk. The series titled "Involved" is a scripted comedy that he will star and executive produce. "Involved" will will OB Sharp who has been a boyband superstar since childhood. On the verge of a worldwide tour, he wants to leave...
Singer and actress Jennifer Lopez recently launched "Delola," a new low-calorie alcohol line inspired by her lifestyle. Delola is a ready-to-enjoy cocktail, consisting of 110 calories or less. Delola Spritz, is made up of three original cocktails: Bella Berry, Paloma, and L'Orange. The name means "from Lola" in Spanish and was inspired by Lopez's nickname, Lola. "I love to...
Former First Lady Michelle Obama and Oprah will discuss relationships, their friendship, and dealing with difficult times in a new special for Netflix. Six months after the release of her bestselling novel, "The Light We Carry," the former First Lady is opening up about her marriage to former President Barack Obama: "We have to be honest about real marriage...
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce announced a new music festival to take place April 28th in Kansas City during the upcoming NFL Draft. Performers include Machine Gun Kelly, Rick Ross, Loud Luxury and Tech N9ne. "We're going to throw the biggest music festival Kansas City's ever seen," said the recent Super Bowl champion. Fans can register online...
The UFC and WWE signed a landmark agreement to form a new, publicly traded company that will consist of MMA and pro wrestling brands. The new, unnamed sports entertainment company is valued at $21.4 billion. Endeavor, the parent company of UFC, will continue to have CEO Ari Emanuel serve as CEO of the new company. Vince McMahon will serve...
Cardi B and Starco Brands reached over 2 million in sales with their drink Whipshots. They have also expanded into 26 markets with their product in Meijer, Albertsons, Walmart, Vons, Rouses, Woodman's and Giant Eagle. Cardi is not only doing numbers in music but also in business and we love to see it!
Rob's Backstage Popcorn co-launched by Naked Market and The Jonas Brothers has raised $7 million in their recent series A round. Interesting the round was led by DJ Kygo's venture firm. They also saw investments from UTA Ventures, actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, David Grutman, actress Mindy Kaling, NFL's Joe Haden, and actor Glen Powell. Funding will be used to...
Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry signed a new long-term extension with Under Armour that will extend well beyond his playing days. No financial terms were disclosed, but the new agreement could be one of the richest-ever endorsement deals in sports once annual base pay, stock equity, royalties, and on-court incentive bonuses are tallied. Curry signed with UA in...
Oscar winner and founding member of The Roots band, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson will direct a new live-action/hybrid reimaging of "The Aristocats" for Walt Disney Studios. The film is based on the 1970 animated pic about a family of Perisian felines who learn they are set to inherit a fortune from their owner. Thompson recently won an Academy Award for...
Curry is set to launch his whiskey, Gentleman's Cut Game Changer. Curry Joins a growing list of NBA players who have their own alcohol brands.
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Monarch Collective, a new investment firm focused on women's professional sports, has raised $100 million for its debut fund. The firm was formed late last year by Kara Nortman and Jasmine Robinson. Billie Jean King is among the company's initial investors. They plan to focus on leagues like the WNBA and NWSL while also expanding to global women's sports...
Legendary quarterback Tom Brady has recently acquired ownership interest in the defending WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces. "I'm very excited to be part of the Las Vegas Aces organization. My love for women's sports began at a young age when I would tag along to all my older sisters' games - they were by far the best athletes in...
The Mogul himself; Magic Johnson, who already has ownership stakes in the Dodgers, Sparks, and LAFC has joined 76ers and Devils owner Josh Harris' bid to buy the Commanders. With a handful of Black minority owners, Magic is looking to expand and have a sit at the table within the NFL.
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TMRW Sports, a start-up founded by Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Mike McCarley announced Kevin Durant, Rich Kleiman and others as new investors. Previous investors include Stephen Curry, Diana Taurasi, Jayson Tatum, and Serena Williams. TMRW Sports is focused on harnessing technology to build novel, progressive approaches in sports, media, and entertainment for the next generation of sports fans,...
Ludacris' media company Karma's World Entertainment, which aims to foster kids' self-esteem, creativity, and education programs, struck licensing deals with two Black-owned businesses that specialize in haircare products for Black girls. "Creating a program that supports Black-owned businesses speaks to the themes of representation and community that live throughout Karma's World," said Chris "Ludacris" Bridges in a statement. Bridges...
Idris Elba and Mo Abudu have partnered on a landmark deal to "empower and uplift talent from Africa and the Diaspora." Elba's Green Door Pictures and Abudu's EbonyLife Media will team up to feature a new development slate of TV and film projects along with continent-wide training programs. The partnership has two approaches: to build a TV and film...
Two-time NBA champion J.R. Smith is changing his focus from basketball to golf in a new four-part docuseries for Amazon. Prime Video is launching Redefined: J.R. Smith, which will follow the retired NBA player as her pursues a college education and golf at North Carolina A&T. The series comes from LeBron James and Maverick Carter's Uninterrupted banner, and will...
Mint Mobile, the prepaid wireless brand in which Ryan Reynolds holds a minority ownership stake, has been acquired by T-Mobile in a deal with up to $1.35 billion. Reynolds will continue in his creative role as a spokesman for Mint. The actor and entrepreneur owns a roughly 25% stake in Mint. T-Mobile said it will maintain Mint Mobile's current...
Rapper and actor Drake announced his new tour, "It's All a Blur" that will kick off later this year. Produced by Live Nation, Drake and 21 Savage will be going on a 29-date arena run with stops in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, and Arizona. This will be Drake's first headlining tour since Aubrey & the Three Migos...
Actors and comedians Anthony Anderson and Cedric the Entertainer are partnering together to launch their own barbecue label, AC Barbecue. Along with their new brand, A&E Networks will be documenting their quest to perfect the skill of grilling in a new series called "Kings of BBQ." The series will follow the duo as they travel the country looking for...
Paramount Global is exploring a potential sale of a majority stake in its BET business which includes BET, VH1 and BET+ streaming service. Tyler perry, a longtime partner of the network is engaged in conversations to buy the stake. Seems like a perfect fit for the Tyler perry brand but there's also another suitor, Byron Allen who controls a...
Alaska Airlines has partnered with the McBride Sisters Wine Company, the largest black-owned winery in the country to bring award-winning wines to its guests. "Our goal is to introduce customers to west coast wines that they will fall in love with and seek out after getting off the plane with us," said Todd Traynor-Corey, Alaska's managing director of guest...
Larry Jackson learned the record business from two of the most influential music moguls every (Clive Davis & Jimmy Iovine) is starting his own music company. Jackson will have about 1 billion in available capital. Gamma will sign artist as well as cut deals to release new music, with some already in place from Snoop Dogg, Usher, and Rick...
Charles D. King's Macro has raised a $90 million minority investment from BlackRock Alternatives and HarbourView Partners. Macro will use the influx of capital to grow its operations across productions, branding and talent representation units. The company will also work to diversify its revenue streams with businesses that build direction connection with consumers. Macro previously raised $150 million in...
Producer, writer, and artist Metro Boomin sold a portion of his publishing catalog to Shamrock Capital for close to $70 million. Metro Boomin a.k.a. Leland Tyler Wayne helped craft some of rap and R&B's biggest hits like "Bad and Boujee" by Migos, "Mask Off" by Future, and "Tuesday" by iLoveMakonnen. Last month, Shamrock Capital announced that it rasied $600...
NBA superstar Gianna Antetokounmpo and Nashville Predators forward Filip Fosberg are part of a new set of minority investors who have acquired a stake in Major League Soccer side Nashville SC. Antetokounmpo's borthers Thanasis, Kostas, and Alex are also included in the investors group. Other Nashville SC investors include Reese Witherspoon and Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry. "My...
On the latest episode of her radio show, Nicki Minaj announced that she is launching her own record label. The label name will be unveiled later according to the rapper, but her current roster of artists include Nana Fofie, Tate Kobang, Rico Danna, and London Hill. Minaj added that her new label is an ode to Lil Wayne, who...
Howard University's Men's Swimming and Diving Team made history when they took home the 2023 Northeast Conference Men's Swimming and Diving title, the first conference win for the team 34 years. Howard is the only HBCU with a surviving swim program, and the only all-Black swim team in the country - coaches and support staff included. According to the...
The Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, and Charlotte Hornets will be featured on podcasts as part of the NBA's and iHeartMedia's new deal. The media company and basketball association are launching 11 new shows featuring teams including the New Orleans Pelicans, San Antonio Spurs, and Cleveland Cavaliers. The new shows will be hosted by top NBA analysts, hosts, announcers, and...
Britney Sade, Founder of CurlCap is one of the Black businesses partnering with Disney with her merchandise for fans of the brand. Over 100,000 Disney-Themed CurlCaps have been sold already.
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Tennis great Serena Williams will be honored this weekend with the Jackie Robinson Sports Award during the NAACP Image Awards ceremony. The award recognizes individuals in sports for high achievement in athletics along with their pursuit of social justice, civil rights, and community involvement. Previous award winners include Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Magic Johnson. "From her record-breaking wins...
Adidas is renewing its partnership with Major League Soccer in a six-year extension that will pay the league $830 million through 2030. It's the largest investment the sportswear company has made in American soccer. The extension is a sign of growth for the league, which now has 29 teams and is looking to expand amid soaring valuation. The average...
Black Irish Cream Liqueur by Mariah Carey will officially launch in areas of South America and the Caribbean this Spring. This is the brand's first international distribution, it's currently only available in the United States. Carey founded the brand and named it with a nod to her heritage. Black Irish is crafted in Ireland with aged Irish whiskey resulting...
United Airlines and five corporate sponsors are creating a venture capital fund to invest in startup firms and technology developing and expanding the availability of sustainable aviation fuel. Air Canada, Boeing, GE, Aerospace, JPMorgan Chase, Honeywell, will start with $100 million invested in the United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund. The fund will allow United and other investors the...
Bacardi will buy a majority stake worth about $750 million. In 2021, Jay-Z partnered with Bacardi to launch D'usse. Recently Jay-Z wanted to be bought out and the two sides agreed upon a price. Another win for the GOAT himself.
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https://robbreport.com/food-drink/spirits/dusse-cognac-jay-z-bacardi-purchase-1234804473/
Yellow Wood Partners, a Boston PE firm focusing on consumer brands acquires Suave from Unilever. Yellow Wood Partners has a diverse family of consumer brands such as Dr. Scholl's, Beacon Wellness Brands, Brand PlusOne, Real Techniques and EcoTools.
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https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/yellow-wood-partners-to-acquire-unilevers-beauty-and-personal-care-brand-suave-in-north-america-301746236.html
Founder and CEO of The Lip Bar Inc., Melissa Butler, is making history by becoming the largest Black-Owned makeup company in Target. The brand takes up 6 shelves of space in stores. For those who aren't familiar that's A LOT of real estate for retail stores, especially for Black-owned business. Major Congrats to Melissa and The Lip Bar team!
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Casino operator and entertainment company Penn Entertainment paid $388 million for the remaining 64% stake in Barstool Sports. In January 2020, Penn Entertainment paid $163 million for a 36% stake in Barstool Sports. Dave Portnoy, Barstool founder, sold majority control of Barstool to Chernin Group in 2016. That agreement included a path for Penn to establish full control and...
NBA legend Michael Jordan donated $10 million to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for his 60th birthday. It's the largest donation ever received from an individual in the organizations 43-year history. Jordan hopes his donation will inspire others to help fulfill the wishes of the kids still waiting for their wishes to come true. "I can't think of a better birthday...
Musician, producer, and streetwear designer Pharrell Williams will be Louis Vuitton's next creative director of menswear. Williams will be succeeding the late Virgil Abloh. "I am glad to welcome Pharrell back home...His creative vision beyond fashion will undoubtedly lead Louis Vuitton toward a new and very exciting chapter," Pietro Beccario, Louis Vuitton's Chairman and CEO said. Williams will be...
New York Yankees Hall of Fame shortstop Derek Jeter is joining the MLB on Fox team for the 2023 season. The announcement came during Fox's Super Bowl pregame coverage. Jeter will join fellow Hall of Famer David Ortiz and host Kevin Burkhardt as part of the studio team. "I was on set at the World Series in Philadelphia and...
Cats out the bag, with Covid restrictions eliminated, the at-home training equipment companies have seen better days. Tonal, the platform backed by athletes including LeBron James, Serena Williams and Mike Tyson will pursue a sale. It will be interesting to see who acquires the platform and how they intend to use it.
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https://connectthewatts.com/2023/02/13/tonal-rumored-to-be-trying-to-sell-itself/
Watch out! There's a new sports investment firm on the block. Former WWE co-presidents George Barrios and Michelle Wilson are partnering with 10-time NDA All-Star Carmelo Anthony. The firm will be called Isos7 Sports Investments. Already raised $750 million, the initiative is to invest in global sports entities while donating 1% of profits to support underrepresented populations and communities.
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DJ Khaled is bringing his We the Best imprint to Def Jam Records, leaving Sony Music where he was signed before under Epic Records. Khaled is teaming up with Universal Music Group to become their Global Creative Consultant where he'll work across all the labels at the company. As an artist, DJ Khaled will release future music through Def Jam,...
Pendulum Therapeutics, a biotech company pioneering the next frontier of metabolic health through its products, announced that Halle Berry is joining the company as an investor, equity owner, and Chief Communications Officer. Berry has been an avid Pendulum customer for over a year, and now she will collaborate with the executive team on future produce development and innovation. "Your...
HYBE America has entered into an agreement to acquire Quality Control media holdings. The well-known Atlanta based entertainment company house artist such as Lil Baby, Lil Yachty, City Girls and Migos. They also have a sports arm, film and television. The deal will allow QC to be under the HYBE umbrella in hopes to continue to expand. A win/win...
Philadelphia Eagles assistant coach will make history as the first black woman to coach in the big game. Lockwood joined the Eagles last August as a sports performance coach and now heading to the biggest stage in the NFL. We love to see it!!
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The Michael Jackson estate is in the process of selling half of his catalog in a deal that can fetch up to $900 million. The package would be the biggest deal to date.
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With the Super Bowl around the corner it was only right we highlighted Nicole Lynn who betted on herself and now its paying off. She will be the first ever black female agent to represent a QB in the Super Bowl on Sunday. In an industry that's dominated by males she paved a way so other female agents to...
NBA legend Magic Johnson, Oscar winner Samuel L. Jackson, and Tony-nominated actor and director LaTanya Richardson Jackson are the latest backers of Statement Films. Statement Films is a women-led entertainment start-up that was created to bridge the gap between African and diaspora women creators and the global marketplace. Areej Noor founded Statement Films and is focused on finding and...
Actress Kerry Washington will be turning 45 this year and plans to celebrate by releasing her debut memoir. "Thick Than Water," will be released on September 26th and give readers an intimate look into her public and private lives. The book will chronicle her journey as a mother, daughter, artist, and upbringing in New York City. "I hope that...
On Tuesday night, LeBron James scored a fadeaway jumper to put him first on the NBA's all-time scoring list, surpassing Laker legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Abdul-Jabbar's record stood alone for more than 38 years at 38,387 career points. James needed thirty-six points on Tuesday evening to take over the record and he finished with thirty-eight points. James thanked his family...
Beyoncé just became the most awarded artist in Grammy history with a record of 32 wins. The award that gave her the historic achievement was the best dance/electronic album, which she won for "Renaissance." She has racked up 88 Grammy nominations over her career, and was previously the most awarded woman performer before Sunday's milestone. The conductor Georg Solti...
Actress and producer Viola Davis earned EGOT status after picking up her first Grammy award. Davis won the award for the best audiobook, narration, and storytelling recording for her memoir "Finding Me," at the ceremony on Sunday. The honor follows her Emmy win for How to Get Away With Murder, an Oscar for Fences, and a Tony for both...
After announcing his retirement "for good" on February 1st, Tom Brady said he'll start his broadcast career with Fox Sports in the fall of 2024. In May 2022, Brady agreed to join Fox Sports as its lead analyst when his playing career was over. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the New York Post reported that...
I know you have been seeing Starry on the shelf while grocery shopping and thinking "what is this off-brand sprite". Starry which is a PepsiCo's brand has become the official drink of the NBA. Great timing being that the All-Star is two weeks away, Starry is set to make a big splash with new partnership.
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Los Angeles Chargers running back, Austin Ekleer is capitalizing on his success he had from connecting with fans through Twitch to launch his own engagement platform that gives special access to athletes, influencers and content creators. Eksperience is aiming to be a better fit platform that will help talent monetize and engage with the community without being burnt out.
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Missy Elliott, A Tribe Called Quest, George Michael and others included in the 2023 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominations. Elliot becomes the first-ever female hip-hop artists to be nominated for the RRHOF, with this being her first year of eligibility. "This is an incredible honor. I'm so humbled and grateful to be counted amongst all the incredible...
Ariana Grande has reached a deal to buy back her assets tied to her R.E.M Beauty brand from a company that recently filed for bankruptcy The deal is valued at roughly $15 million. Grande and her team have been trying to regain control since October 2022. Good for them for making it happen!
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/tylerroush/2023/01/31/ariana-grande-will-reportedly-acquire-her-beauty-brand-for-15-million/?sh=752a0dca33c9
The GOAT himself doubled his career NBA Salary from his licensing deal. The Jordan brand brought in $5.1 billion in 2022 and he see's 5% of that under his deal with Nike. Earning north of $255 million last year from licensing his name to Nike. His net with is said to be $1.7 billion, that's a long way from...
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes will be the first Black quarterbacks to ever face each other in a Super Bowl. Doug Williams was the first Black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl, while Fritz Pollard became the first Black quarterback to play in the league. Hurts and Mahomes are both...
The nation's largest Black-owned bank announced an Empowerment Network, a sweeping move that includes the addition of more surcharge free ATMs nationwide. Customers and non-customers will be able to withdraw money from OneUnited ATM's at no extra cost. "We listened to our customers who want better access and more control over their money," Terri Williams, President and COO of...
Celebrity stylist and creative director June Ambrose revealed a new co-branded Puma collection called "Keeping Score." The offering includes 20 women's sets, like hoodies, mesh jersey sport bras, and leggings. Ambrose teamed up with Puma in 2020 as the creative director for the women's basketball category, later launching the "High Court" line in 2021. Keeping Score will also include...
Celebrity backed Web3 infrastructure company Spatial Labs announced a $10 million seed funding round led by venture firm Blockchain Capital. The company now has a total of $14 million in funding, making the 25 year-old entrepreneur Iddris Sandu the first Black founder under 30 to raise double-digit million seed round. Additional investments came from Jay-Z's Macy Venture Partners, Scooter...
Hipgnosis Songs Capital recently closed a deal to buy all of Justin Bieber's publishing, as well as his artist royalties from his master recordings. The deal was priced at just about $200 million, making it the largest tights sale for any artists of Bieber's generation. The deal covers all of pop stars 290 titles in his catalog released before...
Goldenset Collective, a New York-based provider of a platform making equity investments in digital create businesses, has raised $10M+ in seed funding. Kevin Durant participated in the raise. The company intends to use the funds to make between 10 and 20 initial investments while building out their internal team and creator support infrastructure. They are aiming to invest in...
Volta, the San Francisco-based EV charging-station company that raised $275 million from VC's and reached a market valuation of $2 billion after its 2021 public-market debut, announced Wednesday that it will be acquired by Shell at a price of $169 million. Shell sees the value of adding EV stations to their already existing gas fuel business as the future...
The NFL announced that five teams will host international games, with three regular season games in the U.K. and two in Germany. The Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans will host games in London, and the Jacksonville Jaguars will play at Wembley Stadium. Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs will make their Germany debt as well as the New...
The store known for supplying everything pertaining to your party, Part City has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, toppled by a heavy debt load. The longtime retailer has been saddled by historic inflation and a shrinking market cap. From covid, online retailers like Amazon and helium shortage the company couldn't catch a break.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2023/01/18/party-city-files-for-bankruptcy-to-restructure-piling-debt.html
The NBA has signed a multiyear deal with consumer data firm StellarAlgo, with the league's investment arm taking an ownership stake in the firm as it looks to scale its portfolio.They will have access to fan data services for matters such as e-commerce, venues, ticketing and social media. Seems like a great partnership as fan experience is the most...
Courtside Ventures, A firm dedicated to sports and related industries has secured their biggest fund to date. They have closed fund III raising over 100 million. Investors included Shaq, Larry Fitzgerald, ownership groups of the Atlanta Hawks, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Charlotte Hornets , Atletico Madrid, DC United, LAFC, and Monumental Sports. They also saw an...
The University of Southern California unveiled the "Allyson Felix Field" to honor the track and field star. Felix was already running professionally when she enrolled at USC. She has gone on to become the most decorated American track and field athlete in Olympic history, earning eleven medals in her career. Felix received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree...
NBA Champion Kyle Kuzma is giving back in a big way by donating $1 million dollars to the YMCA of Great Flint to help build a new gymnasium in a new downtown location. The YMCA of Greater Flint announced intentions to move to a new $41 million facility in the city's downtown area. The donation, made through the Kyle...
Shein, the fast fashion brand that has been seen around the world is raising another significant round. The e-commerce platform is seeking $3 billion at a valuation of $64 billion, down from the $100 billion price tag in April. Shein is still planning to go public, which we could see early as this year.
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https://techcrunch.com/2023/01/18/shein-valuation-plunge/
The WNBA announced that the first WNBA Canada Game will be played in Toronto in May, and feature the Chicago Sky and Minnesota Lynx. "Bringing a WNBA preseason game to Canada is an important milestone for the global growth of the league," said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. The preseason game will be played on May 13th at Scotiabank Arena....
Schola, the online platform that helps families discover, connect, and enroll in the ideal PK-12 schools for their children, completed a $10 million Series A round of funding. The minority-founded and led organization has already surpassed 100K students searching for the most suitable school in their platform to improve educational outcomes across the United States. "We're very excited about...
T-Mobile is reportedly in talks with Mont Mobile to acquire the company. Mint Mobile was founded in 2016. Ryan Reynolds has leveraged his fame to promote Mint Mobile as a replacement for giant US mobile operators. Makes sense for the acquisition, Mint Mobile already uses T-Mobile infrastructure.
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https://www.androidheadlines.com/2023/01/t-mobile-could-acquire-ryan-reynolds-mint-mobile.html
Apple is cutting the CEO, Tim Cook's compensation by more than 40% to $49 million from his $84 million he made last year. The request came from Tim Cook himself to adjust his pay. Great CEO's make great business moves.
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https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2023-01-12/apples-tim-cook-40-percent-pay-cut
Hope & Wonder, a private label brand, is planning to release another collection to commemorate Black History Month with JCPenny retail stores. Items launching at the release include clothes, accessories, and house products. This is the second year in a row that label brand and retailer company are working together for Black History Month. Earnings from the collection will...
Filmmaker Spike Lee has teamed up with The Gersh Agency to create the Spike Fellows Program, a fellowship to support students at the Atlanta University Center Consortium. The Atlanta University Center Consortium consists of three Historically Black Colleges and Universities: Morehouse College, Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University. The program is based on the principle that access plus exposure...
General Manager and President of Basketball Operations of the Golden State Warriors Bob Myers is launching a new sports podcast with Peyton Manning's Omaha Productions. The new podcast, "Lead By Example," debuted on January 11th with star point guard Stephen Curry being the first guest. The podcast will feature interviews with people from all walks of life. Current guests...
The new trend for Private Equity groups these days seems to be purchasing music rights/catalogs. Dr. Dre is the latest to engage in the selling conversations regarding his music rights. Dr. Dre who estimated to be worth $820 million is gearing up to sign a deal to hand over ownership to Shamrock Holdings and Universal Music Group for north...
Monique Rodriguez and her husband, Melvin Rodriguez, announced their partnership with P&G Beauty. The beauty conglomerate has one of the strongest portfolios including Gilette, Febreeze, Olay and now Mielle joining their class list. P&G will serve as a partner to Mielle to provide additional resources, to safeguard its commitment to Mielle and it’s Black and Brown consumers and has...
The NFL's Joe Burrow and NBA's Blake Griffin are just some of the athletes who recently joined a group to purchase a 104-acre farm in Iowa for roughly five million dollars. Other athletes in the investment group include the NFL tight end Zach Ertz and Major League Baseball's Kevin Gausman. The group will eventually purchase four more properties, leasing...
Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, rapper Meek Mill, and comedian Kevin Hart announced a $7 million donation schools in the Philadelphia area, adding to their donation of $15 million last year. The donation will support schools in North and South Philly where Hart and Mill respectively grew up. The money will be used during the 2023-2024 school year with most...
The legend with the most Grand Slam titles in Men's Tennis history is seeking a new challenges. Nadal will be the owner of Team Spain in a new electric boat racing series called E!, which will launch this year. He also is investing in the league and its Blue Action Program which supports marine ecosystems.
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Known for their simple menu and for always being fresh, In-N-Out is set to make their way East with their expansion. In recently articles, In-N-Out said moving east wasn't in their plans because they're known for their quality of food they put out, but now they have a change of heart. They announced plans to invest $125 million in...
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is joining the ownership group of the Kansas City Current, the NWSL team announced. Mahomes is the first active NFL player to have equity in an NWSL team, joining his wife Brittany as part of the ownership group. Brittany Mahomes has been a founding owner of the team alongside Chris and Angie Long. The MVP...
Former superstar NFL wide receiver, Brandon Marshall is releasing a fitness app HOA+ (House Of Athletes) to support users physical and mental health. The platform will be available through the Apple Store. Marshall has been public abut his struggle with personality disorder and is a longtime advocate for mental health support. We love to see athletes being more comfortable...
Roc Nation is working with cannabis industry giant "The Parent Company," to restructure their growth partnership. According to The Insider, Roc Nation and their top affiliates will return about 7.1 million common shares of the cannabis brand. "We are excited for the continued growth of The Parent Company and or future together in the cannabis industry," Jay-Z said in...
Herself Heath, a new healthcare technology company designed to deliver advanced primary care to women over age 65, announced a $7 million seed round of funding by founding partner Juxtapose. Herself Health also recently opened its first health clinic. "As a value-based advanced healthcare business focused exclusively on women, our company aims to link women's health goals with their...
SparkCharge is the first company to create a mobile EV charging system and network. With the EV market rapidly growing SparkCharge hit the market with perfect timing. The company raised roughly $30 million from investors including Mark Cuban and Pusha-T.
Vegan chef Tabitha Brown is launching her newest collection at Target that will feature approachable vegan food and kitchenware. Brown's previous Target collections focused on fashion and home decor, the new line is a nod to her early fame a vegan chef influencer. The line will include grocery items like vegan cream cheese spreads, pastas, and plant-based patties to...
Award-winning har care brand, Cantu Beauty, recently announced Grammy-nominated artist Jordin Sparks as the new brand ambassador. Sparks is teaming up with the haircare line to help shine a spotlight on the brand's community initiatives that give back to young women over the world, specifically with the brand's partnership with global nonprofit, Women Empowering Nations. "We're so honored to...
YouTube TV and the National Football League recently announced that the Google-owned streaming service will be the exclusive home to out-of-market NFL games. Sunday Ticket, which makes every NFL game available nationwide wide, will available as an add-on package and standalone YouTube Primetime Channels beginning next season in 2023. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the New...
Billionaire mortgage lender Mat Ishbia is in talks to finalize the purchase of the NBA's Phoenix Suns and WNBA's Phoenix Mercury. Ishbia has developed relationships with numerous NBA owners and is well-respected in the league office. Justin Ishbia, Mat's brother, is a founding partner in Shore Capital and will make significant investment and serve as an alternate governor. The...
Award winning R&B singer Mary J. Blige has signed a first-look deal with BET, in partnership with her production company Blue Butterfly, to produce and create non-scripted programming. Blige additionally inked a second-look deal centered around scripted content. "BET has been one of my biggest supporters throughout my career. Being able to now create together, for them to be...
Nutrabolt, the company who parents C4 has accepted an investment of $863M from Keurig Dr. Pepper for 30% stake. The deal will make KDP the second largest investor in Nutrabolt.
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https://www.just-drinks.com/news/keurig-dr-pepper-buys-stake-in-us-energy-drink-maker-nutrabolt/
The National Cycling League announced a $7.5 million seed round to fund its short-form technology -forward racing league. The round was led by Will Ventures art also saw investments from Bradley Beal, Jalen Ramsey, Derwin James, Kevin Byard, and Casey Hayward to name a few. Men and Women will both race on the same courses and will win equal...
The Parent company of Chiclets, Bubblicious, Dentyne and Trident has agreed to sell to Dutch company, Perfetti for $1.35 billion. Who new the gum industry was valued so high? Mondelez is also seeking a buyer for its halls cough drop unit, as it refocuses on food and chocolate.
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https://www.foodbusinessnews.net/articles/22869-perfetti-van-melle-acquiring-mondelezs-gum-business
JetBlue Airlines is launching an exclusive partnership with Peacock streaming service. Starting in Spring 2023, all JetBlue passengers will be able to watch a selection of Peacock Originals for free through their seatback screen. Those who purchase in-flight WiFi will also have access to Peacock's full range of entertainment, live sports, news, and movies. Members part of the JetBlue's...
Actors Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett have turned their popular podcast "SmartLess" into a new media company. SmartLess Media will include an expanded slate of shows and podcasts, with four original podcast starting in 2023. "Bad Dates" with Jameela Jamil, a sports show hosted by Rex Chapman called "Owned", "Amy Always Wins" with Rod Corddry and Jeopardy...
Joining the likes of numerous other athletes, Naomi Osaka and Patrick Mahomes are set to invest in a Major League Pickleball team based in Miami. Nick Kyrgios, another tennis star, and sports agent Rich Paul are also expected to invest in the team which plans to begin play next year. There are currently twelve teams, with twelve more expected...
The U.S. Postal Service is going to memorialize the late Representative John Lewis with a new stamp next year. The Postal service said the stamp "celebrates the life and legacy" of Lewis. Lewis was part of the civil rights movement who represented Georgia in Congress for decades. He died in 2020 due to pancreatic cancer. The Postal Service also...
Actor and director Michael B. Jordan is now part owner of the English soccer team AFC Bournemouth. The Premier League club announced that a deal was recently closed, with American businessman Bill Foley buying the club, and Jordan buying a minority ownership in the team. Foley is the owner of the NHL Vegas Golden Knights franchise. This is Jordan's...
Rapper Saweetie hopes to inspire and educate the next generation by providing new financial literacy courses for the youth. As part of her "Icy Baby Foundation," youth between the ages of seven and seventeen are eligible to participate in the program where they will receive a funded debit card, educational resources, and information about saving, budgeting, and financial planning....
Wiz Khalifa's Taylor Gang Entertainment has signed 25 athletes to endorsements deals to promote the rappers "45 Minute Beatdown" on their personal Instagram accounts. The student athletes will record a video of themselves dancing to the song with a link on Instagram stories. The song was released last month and features Lil Uzi Vert. Each athlete will be compensated...
Tennis star Serena Williams has launched a new lifestyle brand of performance-care products designed to redefine self-care. The brand, "Will Perform," is a line of clean, cruelty-free topical pain relief and daily muscle care solutions designed to reimagine recovery. Will Perform Public Benefit Corporation is an active lifestyle recovery brand that aims to help everyone perform their best. Along...
The sports trading card platform co-founded by Derek Jeter, Arena Club, has completed a $10 million Series A fundraising round. Arena Club now has a total of $20 million as the company works to deliver that first-ever fully digital card show. "We are thrilled to announced this latest raise which will allow us to continue growing within the fast-paced...
Activists and athletes Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe recently announced the launch of "A Touch More," a production company that centers the stories of revolutionaries who "move culture forward." Bird and Rapinoe created the company to "bring a touch more understanding, connection, entertainment, and conversation to the evolving media landscape." They aim to amplify stories around identity, activism, and...
Activist and director Ava DuVernay is now the first Black woman on a Ben & Jerry's ice cream pint and has her own flavor. The flavor is called "Lights! Caramel! Action!" and is made of vanilla ice cream with salted caramel and graham cracker swirls with pieces of chocolate chip cooke dough. The ice cream will start shipping nationwide...
In a pursuit to obtain a gaming license in New York City for a casino in Time's Square, SL Green and Caesars Entertainment have enlisted mogul Jay-Z for help. The rapper, along with the Roc Nation entity, will be joining the efforts to open a new, state-of-the-art gaming facility. If it all comes together, the name of the facility...
ResortPass which has pioneered the offering of day access to luxury hotels and resorts around the world, has raised $26 million in new funding and appointed Michael Wolf as the new CEO. The round saw investments from Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Alba and Brian Kelly. The platform allows a user to easily access a property's amenities such as the pool,...
Huel, the European provider of plant-based nutritional products is on the roll selling more than 270 million meals across the globe since 2015. They have a year over year revenue growth that is 40%, up to $170 million. They funds will be used for growth and expanding the product line.
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https://techcrunch.com/2022/11/30/huel-idris-elba-plant-based/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAJOluraa_lKnu02Sp7GchN3zxCNOsY8A7faXyPf0nLlxDBbij0mvxNmLbLzpBPbR-JNVrrded_CNuGzbw5BhBjWPSay7BRVDu4nf44K-qXYkjCk6f-F3-SE-RvFlO2zEH9ArFNOkWh2hoU6eUAUF8iNcpOJ87UAcpbJ1CLtZvOLd
Michael Vick has teamed up with SMAC Productions and Fubo Studios to co-produce an eight-part documentary series on the evolution of the Black quarterback in America. Vick will sit down for conversations with Patrick Mahomes, Cam Newton, Andy Reid, Doug Williams and other celebrities, journalist, and cultural figures. "I'm excited to be a part of this project because as...
Walt Disney has paid $900 million to purchase BAMTech outright from the MLB. BAMTech is a steaming video tech company that powers Disney+. The company was developed by the MLB as an in-house advanced media business before Disney purchased 33% stake in the company.
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https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/disney-pays-900m-for-bamtech-1235271788/
Greenwood, the platform for Black and Latino banking services broadens its offering with Elevate Membership focused on career and lifestyle benefits has closed a $45 million investment round led by Pendulum, a strategic growth investing and advisory platform designed for founders and leaders of color.
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https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221129005447/en/Greenwood-Raises-45-Million-Funding-Round-Led-by-Pendulum-and-Announces-Elevate-a-New-Career-and-Lifestyle-Membership
You heard it right, A debit card made out of Trees has raised $23 million in new funding. The company is a climate-conscious digital money app that uses 80% of its profits to plant trees through its partner Ecosia, the Google search rival. Kind of interesting the company is making cards from trees to plant more trees.
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Tyler Perry and Amazon have announced that Perry signed a new deal with the streaming giant that includes four new movies that Perry will write, direct, and produce. "We are excited to collaborate with Tyler and his teams to bring even more of his fantastic signature films to our global audiences." Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon Studios said in...
In a partnership with Redbird Capital Partners, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, and Gerry Cardinale have launched an artist-led studio that partners filmmakers to empower creative vision and broaden access to profit participation. The studio, "Artist Equity," seeks to create "entrepreneurial partnerships" with filmmakers. Artists Equity is an intellectual property monetization platform anchored by three core principles: Broaden access to...
Aescape, which is developing fully automated massage therapy has announced a $30 million Series A round. Led by Valor Siren Ventures, the company also received an investment from NBA All-Star - Kevin Love. Aescape also has a robust executive team to push the envelope.
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https://www.sporttechie.com/aescape-30-million-series-a-automated-massage-therapy/
Estée Lauder agrees to acquire one of the most iconic brands Tom Ford. The deal is set to make Tom Ford a new billionaire. Ford owned nearly 64% of the company. He will stay on as a creative visionary through the end of 2023. Not a bad payday for the Texas Native.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/giacomotognini/2022/11/15/tom-fords-28-billion-deal-to-sell-his-fashion-brand-to-estee-lauder-makes-him-a-billionaire/?sh=6ed3613c6f0d
The Non-Alcoholic Brew company, Athlete Brewery received %50 million from Keurig Dr. Pepper. The company has raised $174 million in capital to date. J.J Watt also invested in the company to help scale the business.
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https://www.cspdailynews.com/beverages/keurig-dr-pepper-invests-50-million-athletic-brewing-co
Questlove is sharing his love of time travel and hip-hop with a younger audience as he announces his debut children's book titled "The Rhythm of Time," set be released in 2023. The book is co-authored by S.A. Cosby and published by G.P. Putnam's Sons. The book follows two nerdy Blacks teenagers trying to navigate time travel, family, and friendship...
Apple TV+ and Major League Soccer recently announced that MLS Season Pass will stream every live Major League Soccer game beginning February 1st, 2023. The new deal agreement includes a decade-long deal, plus all 29 soccer clubs will have new jerseys that feature an Apple TV+ patch. "We could not be more excited to bring our fans MLS Season...
LeBron James and Maverick Carter's SpringHill production company is teaming up with Marathon Films for a docuseries on the late rapper Nipsey Hussle. The series will talk about Hussle's life growing up in Crenshaw to becoming a rapper and activist. Interviews from Snoop Dogg, Lauren London, Kendrick Lamar and others will be included as well as never-before-seen footage of...
Topicals, a popular skincare company that hopes to transform the way people feel about their skin through products and mental health advocacy, raised $10 million in new funding. Topicals is the fastest growing skincare brand at Sephora, selling one product every minute this year. The financing was led by CAVU Consumer Partners with Jenna Jackson, Principal of Growth at...
Television host Kelly Ripa and actor husband Mark Consuelos announced that they are investing into two European soccer teams, Campobasso 1919 and Ascoli FC. With Campobasso 1919, Ripa and Consuelos will also take on a co-ownership role with the Italian soccer league. North Sixth Group recently purchased Campobasso 1919 and the Ripa and Consuelos hope to rebuild the team's...
Netflix will stream a live comedy show from Chris Rock in 2023, the first global live event of its kind for the streaming service. Back in May it was reported that Netflix was experimenting with live technology. "Chris Rock is one of the most iconic and important comedic voices of our generation. We're thrilled the entire world will be...
Recently retired hockey player P.K. Subban has signed a three-year deal with ESPN to be a full-time member of their hockey coverage team. Subban contributed to the sport network's hockey coverage during the Stanley Cup playoffs lear season, and made appearances on First Take and other ESPN programming during the playoffs. "I'm excited to bring that passion and that...
Tiger Woods and Rory Milroy's new technology-focused sports company recently added new investors including Serena Williams, Steph Curry, and Justin Timberlake. In August, Woods and others unveiled TGL. A new golf league that will operate in partnership with the PGA Tour and debut in January 2024. TMRW's tech-infused league is viewed as a potential "Monday Night Football" for golf...
CenterOak Partners LLC, a Dallas-based private equity firm announced that they will be selling one of their portfolio company (Wetzel's Pretzels) to MTY Food Group for a cash purchase of $207 million. This is MTY's second major purchase of 2022. In august the group purchased Famous Dave's parent BBQ Holdings for $200 million.
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The top agency around, Wasserman announced a strategic investment from Providence Equity Partners, a premier private equity firm specializing in growth-oriented investments in media, communications, education and technology. Private Equity firms love investing in sports, and sports agencies.
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https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221101005932/en/Wasserman-Announces-Partnership-with-Providence-Equity-Partners
Overtime Elite recently signed a media rights partnership for three years with Prime Video. The streaming platform will broadcast twenty games per season on Friday and Saturday nights. An "unscripted series" about the league will be filmed and scheduled to air next Spring. The partnership is an extension of an existing deal between the two companies, Amazon was one...
Rumor has it that Barack Obama is involved with a group looking to buy the Suns. Obama being a big sports advocate it makes sense for him to be involved in potential group. It's time for black ownership.
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https://nba.nbcsports.com/2022/10/28/rumor-barack-obama-involved-with-group-looking-to-buy-suns/
Athlete Unlimited (AU), a network of four professional women's sports leagues (softball, lacrosse, indoor volleyball and basketball) recently raised $30 million in new funding. With heavy-hitters investors, including Kevin Durant AU will use the capital to launch new abbreviated seasons and invest at the youth level.
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https://sports.yahoo.com/athletes-unlimited-raises-30m-back-095500382.html
Top high school basketball recruit and current UCLA freshman Kiki Rice has landed a NIL deal with Jordan Brand, the first athlete with a deal of this kind. Rice played her high school basketball at the Sidwell Friends School in Washington, DC. Jordan Brand already sponsors the UCLA basketball program, but Rice will be the brand's first individually sponsored...
The Big 12 conference has signed a new media rights package with ESPN and Fox worth $2.28 billion. The deal will start in 2025, with ESPN having the top package of football games over Fox including championship games for basketball and football. The new average annual revenue will be $380 million, $160 million more than the final years of...
Jemele Hill has partnered with Spotify to grow her podcast and production company, "Unbothered Network," with two new podcasts led by Black women. Hosted by Germani Manning and Brittany Lackey, "Black Girl Bravado" is a podcast that "seeks to build community amongst women of color through expressions of laughter and love, relevant content and knowledgeable, well-informed guests," the official...
For the first time since Forbes began tracking the value of NBA teams, the Golden State Warriors are now the ranked as the most valuable team in the league. The Warriors, owned by Joe Lacob and Peter Guber, are estimated to be worth over $7 billion dollars. The New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Chicago Bulls follow respectively...
If you're a millennial you probably heard about Michell & Ness from the Jersey era when 'throwbacks' were a big thing. The brand is getting some fresh investments from new big name athletes & entertainers. The brand already had Jay-Z as an investors and the plans for the investments will aim to make Mitchell & Ness more diverse and...
GOLF+ is the leading VR golf app on the market that secured investments from some of the biggest sports names to date to propel its platform forward and fulfill the company's vision of making golf more accessible for everyone. Led by Breyer Capital the company also saw investments from Rory Mcllroy, Jordan Spieth, Tom Brady, Stephen Curry, Mike Trout,...
SEQL closes a $1.8 million seed round bringing its total raise to date to $6.8 million. The company's goal is to amplify scouting reports for socioeconomically disadvantaged high school athletes for free. Some notable investors includes Barry Sanders, Deandre Hopkins, Nancy Lieberman, Ryan Clark, Quinn Cook, Rodney McLeod, Andre Bogut and many more. SEQL also provides content geared towards...
Founded by former NFL running back Robert Smith, Fan Huddle offers hundreds of on-demand video classes from yoga, running, meditation and more. The free content is taught by fitness experts with appearances from athletes including Emit Smith, Eddie George, James Conner, Cam Jordan and Jaylon Smith and many more.They're the first company founded by a former player that the...
Hartbeat Ventures is taking in its first institutional investment from J.P. Morgan. They say it's always good to build relationships and Kevin Hart did just that, leveraging working with J.P Morgan on the marketing side now they're investing in his early stage VC firm. The firm focuses on lifestyle, media, technology with the microscope on financial inclusion. A portion...
NBA Hall of Fame Magic Johnson is reportedly pursuing an ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders which would set a record valuation for the sports franchise. Magic is leading a group that's seeking to buy a minority stake in the team.
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Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has launched Dawn Apollo Films, a film and television production company. Hamilton already has two projects in development, an AppleTV+ film about Formula One racing with Brad Pitt attached to the project. A feature documentary about Hamilton's journey is already in development and will fall under the new production company. Hamilton recently bought...
Known for his play on the pitch, Superstar soccer legend Lionel Messi has formed a US-based holding company which will look to invest in sports, media and technology industries. They will be stage-agnostic and will look to invest in sports teams as well. Another top athlete entering the investment space. We love to see it!
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LA Clippers star Paul George has teamed up with BetterHelp to provide free mental health resources to people in need. George has been vocal about his mental health journey and is a major advocate for therapy. George plans to provide up to $3 million dollars in free mental health services. BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, and...
Days after getting his fourth championship ring with the Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry's Unanimous Media announced a new documentary featuring the superstar. The project, titled "Underrated", stems from A24's first-look deal with Unanimous. The film will culminate Curry's 2022 quest for another championship and his first NBA Finals MVP award. Nick and Ryan Coogler's Proximity Mead will help...
Accomplished dancer Misty Copeland is launching a new non-profit organization called The Misty Copeland Foundation. "The Misty Copeland Foundation aims to support community-based opportunities to explore dance, especially programs that engage young girls and boys of color; advance the art form of ballet through greater diversity, equity, and inclusion; and pursue social justice through arts activism," Copeland said in...
Amazon and the NFL announced that in 2023 Prime Video will exclusively stream a "Black Friday" game the Friday after Thanksgiving. It will be the first-ever NFL Black Friday game, scheduled for November 24th, 2023 at 3 P.M. Eastern. The teams participating will be announced when the 2023 NFL schedule is released. Currently, Prime Video is the exclusive home...
The U.S. Mint will begin shipping quarters next week that will feature the face of Anna May Wong, one of Hollywood's first Asian American movie stars. Wong was vocal about the need for more representation on screen and less stereotypical roles for Asian Americans. Wong, who died in 1961, was paid less than her costars and often played roles...
With the upcoming NBA season tipping off tomorrow, TNT has secured new contract extensions for Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, Shaquille O'Neal and Ernie Johnson. Sources are saying Barkley signed a ten-year deal, while the length of the other contracts have not been disclosed. "Inside the NBA" has picked up 17 Sports Emmys and is considered one of the best...
The popular snack remixed from the popular ice cream "Drumstick" has raised $5 million in new funding to support distribution growth and expand their team. The company expects to expand to more than 15,000 stores in 2023. Muddy Bites are capturing growing trends amongst Gen-Z and millennials who are not afraid to indulge.
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https://www.foodbusinessnews.net/articles/22383-muddy-bites-snags-5-million-in-funding
Major League Baseball recently became the first U.S. sports league to have an official CBD brand. The league is teaming up with CBD Company Charlotte's Web. "We applaud MLB for being the first mover in professional sports CBS and are thrilled to welcome their league as a respected strategic partner," said Charlotte's Web CEO Jacques Tortoroli. The brand will...
More entertainers entering the Pickleball space! Tom Brady, Seven-time Super Bowl Champion and International Tennis Hall of Famer, Kim Clijsters are the latest celebrities joining LeBron James and Drew Brees. The expansion team is set to be 50% female-owned.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2022/10/12/tom-brady-kim-clijsters-major-league-pickleball-owners.html
The Pac-12 is putting its media rights up for sale after its exclusive negotiating window with current holders ESPN and Fox Sports expired without a new deal. It's crazy how fast the conference imploded, hopefully they can find a solution.
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https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/SB-Blogs/Breaking-News/2022/10/Pac-12-ends-exclusive-negotiating-window.aspx
Nike Basketball announced the signing of five popular student athletes to NIL Deals, most notably one of them being Bronny James. Along with James, Iowa standout Caitlin Clark, Stanford star Haley Jones, top recruit DJ Wagner, and Sierra Canyon's JuJu Watkins also signed with Nike. "Each athlete is recognized as a player who is paving the way for the...
Tennis champion Naomi Osaka has recently announced the upcoming release of her debut children's book. Titled "The Way Champs Play," she hopes the book "inspires kids to chase their dreams and encourages them to believe they can do anything they put their minds to". The book will be published by her production company Hana Kuma and portions of the...
Amazon announced the launch of Amazon Catalytic Capital, a $150 million commitment focused on investing in underrepresented builders in tech. The initiative will invest in funds that back pre-seed and seed-stage startups built by Black, Latino, Indigenous, women and LGBTQIA+ founders. The kicker is Amazon is aiming to deploy funds in 365 days.
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https://techcrunch.com/2022/10/06/amazon-has-365-days-to-pour-150-million-into-diverse-check-writers/
Pharrell Williams announced the launch of luxury auction service, Joopiter. Which will go live October, 11th. The idea behind Joopiter is to provide curated auctions with high-touch white-glove service that are focused on rare, exclusive and high-end items curated and created by the tastemakers of culture. The second-hand market has been hot as of lately.
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The three-time Sixth Man of the Year winner Jamal Crawford will now be a full-time member on NBA on TNT's Tuesday night show. Last year Crawford joined the show in a part-time basis, but now he will join the crew of Candace Parker, Shaquille O'Neal, and host Adam Lefkoe as a full time analyst. Crawford will replace Dwyane Wade...
Actress, singer, and host Jada Pinkett Smith has announced a new book deal for a memoir slated to come out next Fall. The book will cover her complicated marriage to Will Smith, as well as her upbringing in Baltimore, Maryland and her friendship with the late Tupac Shakur. The memoir will be published by Dey Street Books, an imprint...
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, along with his parents, has launched "The Joe Burrow Foundation" to help children with mental illness and those experiencing food insecurity. In 2019 during Burrow's Heisman speech he detailed the struggles people in Southeast Ohio face with food insecurity and poverty. The Joe Burrow Hunger Relief fun was created after the speech and raised...
Chubby Snacks, the maker of the new age PB&J sandwich has raised $3.25 Million to launch nationwide. Investors included Patrick Schwarzenegger, D'Amelio family, and a handful of founder and CEO's. Their focus is to continue to lean into what they're really good at, manufacturing and selling crustless PB&Js.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/douglasyu/2022/09/26/threatened-by-smucker-and-facility-closure-chubby-snacks-amasses-325-million-to-launch-superfood-peanut-butter-and-jelly-sandwich-nationwide/?sh=ae3c17461497
Jay-Z's venture capital firm, Marcy Venture Partners, has raised $16.5 million in fundraising for Stellar Pizza, a mobile pizza restaurant ran by robots. The storefront plans to open at the University of Southern California this fall. Stellar, founded in 2019 by former SpaceX engineers, uses a truck outfitted with an assembly-line-like robots device that can make up to 420...
Phil Collins and his Genesis bandmates Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford have agreed to sell their publishing copyrights to Concord Music Group for both of $300 million.
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https://variety.com/2022/music/news/phil-collins-genesis-sell-catalogs-concord-1235388629/
Random House Children's Books will publish a new line of books within the Little Golden Books imprint. This new line is in partnership with Ebony Media Publishing's Ebony Jr. All books will be illustrated by Black creators. Titles will be geared toward children ages two to five, with nonfiction and fiction options. The first two titles will be Harry...
Scout, the investing platform with a mission to make investing fun, relatable and safe announced that it has raised a $2.6 million seed round with participation from Chris Paul, Vernon Davis, Jimmer Fredette, and Kyle Hines. The goal is to attract a younger audience to invest smart. Scout also partnered with a host of influential pro athletes that includes,...
Actress and singer Keke Palmer has announced that she is starting her own digital network called "Key TV", aiming to spotlight a new generations of creators. "I want to share everything I learned with you, because this is my greatest dream of all," Palmer said in a video announcement. Key TV is described as "a Keke Palmer-led company" across...
It's starting to sound like a broken record, but what doesn't LeBron James has his hand in? With his forward thinking and those around him, the group is purchasing a Major League Pickleball team as part of an all-star consortium. NBA stars Draymond Green and Kevin Love are also part of the purchasing group. With the rise of the...
League One Volleyball, founded in 2020, has secured $16.75 million in Series A funding for a new professional women's volleyball league. Billie Jean King, Kevin Durant, and Chelsea Handler are part of a star-studded group to invest in the new league. More than half of the investors are women. With the new capital raised, LOVB will continue creating professional...
A few days after the NFL announced a new Super Bowl halftime sponsorship deal with Apple Music, the sports league announced that superstar Rihanna will be headlining the big event. It's the first scheduled return to the stage for the artists who last publicly performed at the Grammy Awards in 2018. "We're excited to partner with Rihanna, Roc Nation,...
Rapper and actor Megan Thee Stallion recently launched a website dedicated to mental health resources. The database is called "Bad Bitches Have Bad Days Too" and features links, phone numbers and many other free therapy organizations contact information. She also included a special directory for the Black community, as well as the LGBTQ+ community. Megan has been vocal in...
Apple Music will succeed Pepsi, which was previously the lead sponsor of the halftime show for the last decade. Apple Music's first Super Bowl halftime show will take place February 12th, 2023 in Arizona, no performers have been announced yet. This new partnership is part of a multiyear deal. The league has been hoping to find a new sponsor...
Former Super Bowl champion wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders recently joined NFL Network as a studio analyst. Sanders will make his debut on NFL GameDay Morning this Sunday. He will regularly appear on the program throughout the season, as well as other NFL Network programs. "After 12 years in the NFL, I'm excited to take what I have learned on...
After just one year of retirement, former Giants catcher Buster Posey is joining the team again in a new role as a member of the Board of Directors. Posey is the first former player to going the Giants' ownership group. He is now the 31st principal partner of the team. Posey spent his enter 12-year career playing for the...
Influence Media Partners has acquired Future's publishing catalog from 2004-2020. In the time frame Future worked on 612 titles. The deal is said to be worth "high eight figures" but details have not been disclosed. The acquisition comes on the heels of Influence Media Partners recently announced $730 million fund platform to invest in high-value compositions from diverse artists...
Diversity recruiting platform PowerToFly has secured over $30 million in funding led by investments funds managed by Morgan Stanley (Expansion Capital). The investment is symbolic of the irreversible momentum and support for advancing the representation of more diverse talent and intersectional indents in the workplace.
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Amazing concept! DigiSign has created a platform that will athletes & entertainers a one-on-one virtual meeting into a digitally-signed photograph that is downloadable and social media ready. With DigiSign, an autograph meeting can be done privately and orderly in 45 seconds where a fan converses with the athlete on one side of the screen and watches then digitally sign...
With the new funding Therabody launched eight new products that expand the brand to a whole-body wellness with proven benefits performance, pain, stress, and sleep. The round was led by PE firm North Castle Partners but also saw investments from Kevin Hart's Hartbeat Ventures and Aaron Rodgers RX3 Ventures. Therabody has separated themselves from the pack in the massage...
A jersey worn by basketball legend Michael Jordan in the first game of the 1998 NBA Finals has sold for $10.1 million, a record for game-worn sports memorabilia. The jersey is the most expensive Jordan item sold, surpassing an autographed card that sold for $2.7 million. Jordan wore the jersey on his way to his sixth NBA championship with...
Actress and artist Brandy is expanding her brand. The singer has formed a partnership with Stella Rosa to launch their newest product, Stella Rosa Brandy. The collection of hand-crafted fruit-flavored brandy will come in three flavors, Smooth Black, Honey Peach, and Tropical Passion. The brandy is made from high-quality grapes grown in Northern Italy. While the product is not...
Barstool is boarding the NIL marketplace train with their new platform, TwoYay. The platform won't take a commission from deals from either the athletes or brands. They are creating something that doesn't exist today, putting all the power in the athletes hand.
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https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/barstool-sports-twoyay-nil-deal-us-ncaa-college-athletes-2022-upfront/
Recovery tech provider, Therabody has partnered with young black cyclist Justin Williams, who has been pushing the envelope of inclusion and diversity in the sport. Justin and his brother Cory known as 'The Williams Brothers' are true figures in the space.
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https://www.sporttechie.com/therabody-justin-williams-cycling
A new online trading and vaulting platform for sports cards and other collectible hard goods, Myna Swap announced a $6 million raise. Investors of this raise includes, Odell Beckham Jr., Kyler Murray, and Blizzard the Avalanche fund. The funds will be used to hire key talent. Collectibles is a hot space right now, will be interesting to see what...
Bitsy's, the mom-owned clean food and beverage brand co-founded by actress Gabrielle Union, recently received $1.34 million in funding from Fearless Fund. Fearless Fund is the first venture capital fund built by women of color, for women of color. Bitsy's, founded by Union, Alex Buckley, and Maggie Patton, is a brand looking to provide affordable and nutritious options for...
Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard and his family are giving away their ownership in the apparel maker he started more than fifty years ago. The company's non-voting stock, worth close to $3 billion, will be owned by a collective that will use all profits that aren't reinvested into the business to fight climate change. The company still expects to contribute...
NBA's game changer, Steph Curry is inking a lifetime contract with Under Armour worth north of $1 billion.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/adamzagoria/2022/09/13/steph-curry-to-ink-lifetime-contract-with-under-armour-worth-1-billion-report/?sh=1ba710f13daf
HBCU Go, a platform that broadcasts HBCU sports from across the country, founded by Byron Allen's media platform has caught major interest from more than two dozen advertisers. They have recently announced deals with Walmart, Capital One, Meta and Verizon. Interesting enough HBCU Go has been in existence since 2012, but with all the eyes on HBCU's today brands...
Ethic, the socially responsible investing startup has raised $50 million in their series C funding. Ethic creates personalized portfolios based on investors values which include climate change, women's right and deforestation. Meghan and Harry are also investing in this round.
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https://www.axios.com/pro/fintech-deals/2022/09/14/meghan-and-harry-backed-fintech-ethic-50-million
Flavrs, a stoppable video application that combines premium food content and commerce has launched after raising $7 million in seed funding. The platform is the first of its kind, where shoppers turn their intention into action.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/douglasyu/2022/09/13/a16z-backs-the-launch-of-shoppable-video-app-flavrs-with-7-million-seed-funding/?sh=7f4c1d9e7105
Megan Piphus Peace was been named the first Black woman puppeteer on the popular children's program Sesame Street. She joined the show in 2020 playing the role of 6 year old Gabrielle. Peace has been studying ventriloquism and puppetry since the age of 10, and was featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show at age 15. She attended Vanderbilt University...
Mike and Kyra Epps announced a new show called, "Buying Back the Block" that will are on HGTV in Spring 2023. "We've been fixing houses the last two summers. Now excited to say this time around its going to be on HGTV," Kyra wrote on Instagram. The comedian has been vocal about his views on the importance of "buying...
Former NFL star and current television host Michael Strahan is crossing over into the skincare business with the launch of Michael Strahan Daily Defense. Evolved By Nature is a supporting partner in the brand and developed the silk protein to help create healthier looking skin. "Taking care of your skin is an important component of developing a daily routine,"...
Tonal, the home gym startup could raise more than $100 million in round that would value the company at $1.9 billion. The new funding with continue their growing supply-chain challenges. They have received backing from Serena Williams, Drew Brees, and Mike Tyson.
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https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-09-09/fitness-startup-tonal-seeking-1-9-billion-value-with-financing
The first thing we talk about when we see a standout college athlete is that "he would make a killing off his jersey" now that dream is a reality. Fans can now buy jerseys of their favorite college athletes. Fanatics recently unveiled NIL jerseys with athletes getting a cut of the sales, and over 4,000 athletes are reported to...
Super Bowl Champ, Jalen Ramsey, teams up with UNINTERRUPTED to create his new post-game podcast/show, Straight off the Press”, right inside his suite at Sofi Stadium. UNINTERRUPTED, created by Lebron James and Maverick Carter, is best known for it’s slogan, “More than an Athlete”, and identifies as an athlete empowerment brand, which is showcased in this raw, honest and...
Bill Gates' investment fund, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, announced a $12 million round of investment in the climate-conscious food company Neutral Goods. Other investors in the company include LeBron James, Mark Cuban, John Legend, and Questlove. Neutral Foods tracks the greenhouse gas emissions that come from the production of diary products and buys carbon credits to compensate for those emissions....
Headspace, the company know for their mediation circuits is acquiring Shine, a personalized self-care and wellness startup. The two will join forces to scale inclusive and representative mental health support for all. The acquisition underscores the continuing importance of infusing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
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https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220908005259/en/Headspace-Health-Announces-Agreement-to-Acquire-The-Shine-App-an-Inclusive-Mental-Health-and-Wellbeing-Platform
UConn guard Paige Bueckers will miss the upcoming college basketball season due to an injury, but the guard made it clear she's not leaving for the WNBA just yet. "I'm not leaving. That is not in the question." The NBAA granted athletes a bonus year of eligibility because of the pandemic, so Bueckers canasta through the 2024-2025 season. Her...
Kim Kardashian seems to be everywhere these days. Making her way in the private equity space, Kim continues to show she more than a pretty face. Launching her own firm 'SKKY Partners' with Jay Sammons to invest in business across consumer products, hospitality, luxury, digital commerce and media. Call it what you want, but KK is always making moves.
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Jake Paul wants to be known for more than outlandish comments and knockouts. The 5-0 boxer announced a successful $50 million Series A funding round. Paul co-founded Betr, and was named president of the company. Betr investors include co-owners of the San Francisco 49ers, Boston Celtics, and Miami Marlins along with Travis Scott and Richard Sherman. They want to...
Tennis legend Serena Williams' last match was the most viewed broadcast in ESPN history according to the network. Her Friday match at Arthur Ashe Stadium averaged 4.2 million viewers, with viewership peaking at 6.9 million viewers. Congratulations again to Serena Williams on a remarkable career on the court. We look forward to watching her succeed off the court as...
The NBA and NBAPA have agreed to a multi year agreement with Sorare to be their official NFT fantasy partner in a deal that will combine NFTs and fantasy basketball. The NBA will also equity in the Sorare as part of the deal. Sorare will be allowed to use the NBA's official logos, while the NBAPA licensed its players'...
Gatorade and the NFL are teaming up to launch the brand's first caffeinated energy drink. The drink, "Fast Twitch," marks the first time the league has worked with a corporate sponsor to develop an athletic energy beverage. Fast Twitch will be available to consumers come February 2023, but NFL players will have access to the beverage on the sidelines...
NBA Super-Star Giannis and Naperville, Illinois-based investment manager from Calamos Investments are partnering to launch an ESG fund. The fund will aim to invest in firms that adhere to environmental, social and governance.
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Three-time NBA champion and two-tie MVP expanded his UNDERRATED brand into one of his favorite sports, golf. Their mission is to inspire lifestyle brand with a mission to empower underrated and underrepresented individuals all over the world. Golf is one of the most inaccessible sports for the underserved community, which is why Steph and his team is focused on...
Ciara has announced a new skincare line called On A Mission (OAM). The line will officially launch on September 15, and will feature cleansing, moisturizing, and brightening skin products. All the products in the line will include Vitamin C. Initial offerings will include Vitamin C Cleanser, Vitamin C Brightening Pads, and Vitamin C Radiance Moisturizer.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/ciara-level-beauty-routine-skincare-181345408.html
Jets rookie cornerback Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner has teamed up with Buffalo Wild Wings to launch his own limited-time "Sauce Sauce" signature sauce. "Nothing says football like wings covered in your favorite sauce. I'm excited to launch my own signature "Sauce Sauce" just in time for the season kickoff." Gardner said in a statement. The product will be available at...
FanDuel Group, the top online gaming comparing in North America, announced the launch of FanDuel TV and FanDuel+. Both of the programs go live in September and will become the first linear and digital network dedicated to sports wagering content. Former NFL Network host of GameDay Morning, Kay Adams, will headline the network's live daily morning show five days...
The fifth-year center, Mo Bamba, is doing great things off and on the court. He opened the two-court facility after four months of construction that will serve over 200 children daily. It will give access to two FIBA-Spec courts and full electricity and plumbing. "Everything does to the smallest of details represents an important part of my life". It's...
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have teamed up to launch "TMRW Sports," a company concentrating on "technology-focused ventures that feature progressive approaches to sports, media, and entertainment." It is the first formal business arrangement between two players. "So many athletes, entertainers, and people I meet from all walks of life share our passion for sports, but they also share...
Arctos Sports Partners is investing in the Utah Jazz through a deal with Smith Entertainment Group. Arctos has investments in more than 20 professional sports groups and franchises and was reportedly the first investment firm to offer private equity funding across MLB, MLS, the NBA, and the NHL. In the last year alone, Arctos purchased stakes in the Philadelphia...
Uplift Labs is a smartphone-based motion capture company that recently announced $2.5 million in new funding. This round has investments from Seth Curry and his wife Callie Rivers-Curry. The company has developed technology that generates 3D motion capture of both elite athletes and general health and wellness patients. The Curry's are making moves on and off the court.
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The media site known from their lack of filter, Barstool has been acquired by Penn Entertainment in a $387 million deal. Penn Entertainment acquired 36% of Barstool Sports in 2020 for $163 million. Now Penn Entertainment owns 100% of the company.
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https://www.gamingtoday.com/news/penn-entertainment-buys-barstool/
CBS has announced a partnership with Allen Media Group's HBCU Go, the largest broadcaster for sports at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). HBCU Go will now be available through CBS platforms. The deal, which will run for the 2022-2023 season, will elevate HBCU sports to 60% of American households, from San Francisco to New York.
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Lebron James' media company Uninterrupted and Netflix announced "The Redeem Team" documentary chronicling the 2008 USA Olympic men's basketball team victory in Beijing. It's the first collaboration between the International Olympic Committee and Netflix, and will include never-before-seen footage. Interviews from James, Dwyane Wade, and Mike Krzyzewski will be included. The documentary will debut on October 7th, and is...
The New York City Ballet announced that Solange Knowles will be composing an original score for the annual Fall Fashion Gala this September, making her the third Black woman to do so. The Grammy winner announced the news via Twitter, saying she's "very excited," about the new opportunity. The dance will be choreographed by Gianna Reison and performed by...
The Big Ten conference has reached a new seven-year agreement to sell its broadcasting rights for more than $1 billion a year, a record for a college league. Big Ten football games will air on Fox, ESPN, NBC, and CBS starting July 1st, 2023. FS1 and Big Ten Network will also gain media broadcasting rights. USC, UCLA, and other...
Naomi Osaka's functional skincare brand KINLÒ, which was formulated specifically for people with melanated skin, announced NIL deals with five college athletes for their new campaign #glowoutside. Deja Kelly(Unc women's basketball), Reilyn Turner(UCLA women's soccer), Robert Dillingham(Kentucky men's basketball), Xolani Hosel(Stanford women's beach volleyball) and Ziyah Leigh Holman(Michigan women's track & field). The goal of the campaign is to...
Happy Viking is proud to announce an investment round backed by some of the world's top professional athletes. Led by Venus herself and her sister Serena Williams. The company also received investments from Kevin Durant & Rich Kleiman (35 Ventures), professional golfer - Michelle Wie West, soccer champion- Megan Rapinoe, tennis star- Reilly Opelka and basketball phenoms- Isaiah Hartenstein...
With the rise of cycling in the U.S it was only right that a league was on the horizon. There's been cycling series in the past but nothing like the NCL. Backed by celebrities and entertainers, the league has serious funding behind it. NFL star agent, David Mulugheta is a co-founder of the league. tying in his knowledge and...
Rapper Meek Mill has signed a representation deal with talent agency WME. The agency will represent Meek Mill in all areas while also help support his network of artists, athletes, and entertainers in the brand and business space as part of his Culture Currency initiative. "I have grown and learned the business in an unorthodox way that is effective...
Serena Williams' venture fund, Serena Ventures, led a $5 million funding round in Selena Gomez's Wondermind, valuing the mental health start up at $100 million. Wondermind promotes mental fitness routines to maintain mental health, currently offering social media channels and a newsletter. The company is working on building a production division for mental health content and physical productions with...
In the last year, million dollar deals, endorsements, and NIL collectives have led the headlines for student athletes. Now, a year after the launch of NIL deals, athletes are using a variety of strategies to cash in. Rayquan Smith, a football player and teach athlete from Norfolk State University has been named "The King of NIL" for signing over...
After signing with New Balance at age 14, Coco Gauff's dream comes true of having her own signature pair of sneakers. She becomes the only active woman tennis player with her own shoe.
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The up and coming sports brand/league announced they have raised $100 million in their Series D round. They will use the funds to continue to grow the company's existing leagues in basketball and football. Since launching in 2016 Overtime has raised $250 million.
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Giannis is tapping into his business bag investing in Antidote Health, a telemedicine company. Antidote Health seeks to offer affordable healthcare through telemedicine. He made his investment with the intention of aiding underserved people in communities. Giannis will also serve as a brand ambassador. We love to see it!
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With the passing of NBA legend Bill Russell earlier this month, the NBA has announced that the number he wore, six, will be retired across the league. Russell becomes the first player in NBA history to have his jersey retired league wide. Player currently wearing number six may continue to do so. All thirty teams will wear a commemorative...
Jordan Brand announced a new 20-year partnership with Howard University, one of the country's top HBCU. The first Jumpman and Howard uniforms for the program will be revealed on August 27th. Craig Williams, Jordan Brand president and HBCU graduate see the partnership as an opportunity to invest in students at Howard. "We are proud to partner with Howard University...
Amherst wide receiver Jack Betts aka "The King of D3 NIL" endorsement deals has over 35 deals in the first year of NIL eligibility. Betts deals include a mix of cash deals and free products for an approximate total of $6,000 in value. Omaha Steaks, Fanatics, and Body Armor are just a few of his deals. Many student athletes...
Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam champion, said she's "evolving away from tennis; towards other things that are important to me." Williams won her first U.S. Open in 1999, and may consider stepping away from the sport after the same tournament that begins later this month. Williams noted she has "never liked the word retirement," and preferred the word...
Jaqui Rice Gold has created the first Black-owned Energy Drink brand called G.O.A.T Fuel. Gold teamed up with her husband, Trevion, and her father Jerry to launch the brand after realizing how much she resorted to energy drinks to keep in invigorated. G.O.A.T. uses a unique blend of mushrooms and natural flavors, something Gold opted for to combat the jitter side...
Ryan Reynolds' production and advertising company, Maximum Effort, has a multiyear first-look deal for unscripted content with subscription TV streamer FuboTV. FuboTV will give Maximum Effort $10 million worth of shares of common stock in the company, "as part of the overall consideration for Maximum Effort's participation in a collaboration," per a statement. As part of the deal, Maximum...
Katy Perry and business partner/entrepreneur Morgan McLachlan has secured $4 million for their new line of non-alcoholic aperitifs, De Soi. Katy wants consumers to see De Soi as an elegant experience and a healthier alternative to alcohol, while still providing a desired mood-boosting effect.
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New Era Cap is making moves! First, closing their round with $700 million in new funding and second, bringing on board the three biggest sports leagues (NBA. MLB, NFL) as minority investors. The investment represents a rare union between all three leagues.
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https://frontofficesports.com/new-era-cap-raises-700m-nfl-nba-mlb-invest/
Sports journalist Taylor Rooks will join Amazon's "Thursday Night Football" lineup as a feature reporter for the streaming network. Rooks will host features and sit-down interviews with NFL players and coaches that will appear throughout the broadcast. The Emmy nominee will continue to work for Tuner Sports, where she hosts "Taylor Rooks X," a Bleacher Report show built around...
Today's word is OWNERSHIP! With athletes utilizing their platforms today, ownership opportunities are more accessibility as well. Here's a list of 14 active athletes that are part owners of 17 different teams.
LeBron James - Liverpool(EPL), Red Sox(MLB), Penguins(NHL)
Lewis Hamilton - Denver Broncos(NFL)
Patrick Mahomes - Royals(MLB)
Candace Parker - Angel City FC(NWSL)
Naomi Osaka - North...
As we've seen it done in the past with Puma and Ferrari, this will be an interesting collaboration. The iconic automaker is making its way to the trillion dollar industry in footwear, collaborating with Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL). The shoe will represent the intersection of using the boundaries of luxury, performance and design.
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https://www.menshealth.com/style/a40795584/apl-mclaren-hyspeed-news/
Under the MGM banner, Snoop Dogg is set to star in “The Underdoggs”, an original idea from Snoop and his producing partner, Constance Schwartz-Morini. The sports comedy is to be produced by Snoop’s “Death Row Pictures”, alongside of Kenya Barris, Mychelle Deschamps and Jonathan Glickman with an Oct. 2023 theatrical release date.
The Underdoggs tells the story of Jaycen Jenning,...
Janet Yang has been named the new president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. She is the first Asian person to hold the position, and the fourth woman overall. This will be Yang's first term as president and her second term as a Governor-at-Large. Yang is also co-chair of the Academy's Asian Affinity Group. Some of...
The most known person in the F1 circuit, Lewis Hamilton is joining the group purchasing the Denver Broncos. The only Black driver in F1 history, Lewis knows a few things about winning, holding the record for most wins, pole positions, and podium finishes. Winners win!
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Miami Based, Boatsetter has closed its recent round raising $38 million in new funding. Boatsetter is a marketplace where boat owners can rent their boat to people who are looking to enjoy their time out on the water. Interesting concept!
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Estée Lauder Cos is looking to purchase the iconic brand, Tom Ford for reportedly $3 billion. The deal would be Estée Lauder Cos largest acquisition.
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PepsiCo see's an opportunity and seize the moment, investing over half a billion dollars in energy drink Celsius. The deal gives Pepsi a minority stake of about 8.5%. The investment expands PepsiCo's energy drink portfolio with Rockstar being their first investment/purchase.
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Quinta Brunson was announced as the new face of Olay Beauty. This marks the actress' first-ever beauty partnership. "Olay is such an iconic and trusted brand," Brunson said in a statement. The 3 time Emmy nominee has had a breakout year with the success of her sitcom "Abbott Elementary". She was named one of Time100's Most Influential People.
The network who introduced the to Desus & Mero, Action Bronson, 'Black Market' with Michael Williams is exploring a sale with longtime partner, Antenna Group. The media company once valued at $5.7 billion has had talks for months now after abandoning it’s plan to go public. Group Black, a collective of Black-owned media firms are also in discussions to...
Russell Westbrook is expanding his business ventures into advertising. His company Russell Westbrook Enterprises has partnered with digital marketing firm Casual IQ. Together they will assist in connecting advertisers to multicultural audiences. The partnership will live under the new banner RW Digital, the company has already worked with the likes of PepsiCo Inc., AT&T Inc., American Airlines Group Inc....
Cyclist enthusiast since a young age, LeBron James makes investment in the world's leading consumer-direct bicycle company Canyon. LeBron & Maverick Carter (LRMR Ventures) is joined by US-based private equity firm SC Holdings. This will be LeBron's second investment in bicycles owning a minority stake in Cannondale. Can the cycling sector be the next big thing?
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WNBA star Sue Bird and former NFL quarterback Eli Manning have joined the ownership group of NWSL club NJ/NY Gotham FC. The investment is valued at $40 million. Bird is a native of New York and Manning spent 16 years with the New York Giants. Kevin Durant and Carli Lloyd previously joined the group as investors.
Big Papi recently announced that is joining the cannabis business with Massachusetts-based Rev Brands, and creating his own company called Papi Cannabis. Ortiz will launch the partnership with "Sweet Sluggers," rolled in Rev's facilities in Massachusetts. Papi Cannabis products will be sold at local recreational dispensaries across Massachusetts starting this month.
Jay Sharrers, the first Black NHL official, was just inducted into the British Columbia Hockey Hall of Fame. Sharrers, a native of British Columbia, made history in 1990 when he became the first Black linesman in the NHL. In 2001 he became the first Black referee in the league. During his two-decade career, he presided over seven Stanley Cup...
Former First Lady Michelle Obama will has a new book coming out in the Fall. The book, "The light We Carry," will be published on November 15th and talk about staying positive in challenging times. Obama's 2018 memoir "Becoming," was one of the best selling books of all time, with more than 17 million copies sold worldwide. "The Light...
JetBlue becomes the parent company of "cheap flight" airline, Spirit. The deal will create the 5th largest airline in the U.S. As we all know flying Spirit can be quite the experience, should be interesting to see what changing JetBlue makes to the airline.
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https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/28/business/jetblue-spirit-merger.html
Commemorating the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the historic 1972 federal civil rights law that prohibited discrimination under any education program or activity on the basis of sex, Adidas has joined forces with Billy Jean King and Candace Parker in announcing its first “wide-sweeping” NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) network.
To celebrate the occasion, Adidas has announced 15 female student athletes...
Usher is adding executive producer to his list of credits. The singer will executive producer "Storyville", a new series about the birth of the Jazz Age in development from Starlings Television. "Storyville" is set in New Orleans and follows the tale of five brother madams as they fight to control the red light district. Usher called the new project,...
Duck Duck Books, an Asian American-Owned book publisher, announced the launch of Duck Duck Eco Goods. The new product line features sustainable and convertible accessories. Products include the Duck Duck Gift Swaddle, a multi-use, reusable, washable wrapping cloth inspired by the traditional Japanese furoshiki. As well as the Duck Duck Backpack, a reusable and washable toddler backpack-turned lunch bag...
Lebron James has become Billie certified according to Forbes with a net worth estimated at $1.4B USD. James' stake in Spring Hill Company, Fenway Sports Group, his NBA Salary, a reported Lifetime contract with Nike and various other brand partnerships have pushed him over the billion dollar mark, becoming the only active athlete known to do so. Personally, I...
Since it’s launch 2/2/22, FTBC has been growing exponentially. Created and curated by Pro-Athletes, Entertainers, and Entrepreneurs, it is catching the eyes of exactly that and more! Big name stars such as: Andre Iguodala, Serena Williams, Serena Ventures, Rhuigi Villaseñor, Gotham Chopra, Brice Butler, Zach Katz, OBJ, Travon Free and many more notable brands have pulled up to Follow...
If you're from LA you know about 'The Drew League'. Where those go to showcase their game, be seen, and witness real basketball. You used to have to be there to witness the action, but recently The Drew announced that their games will be streamed by the NBA. The league has seen talents of Kobe Bryant , Kevin Durant,...
Los Angeles Rams Star, Bobby Wagner looks back on opportunities he came across off the football field from business, financial literacy and technology is now helping young people experience those same opportunities. Recently partnering with a VC firm (Next Play Capital) he hosted students who might not have the opportunity to hear about entrepreneurship, finance and early investing. We...
Allen Media Group, a collection of media companies including the Weather Channel, purchased the assets of the Black News Channel. Byron Allen, the CEO and founder of the Allen Media Group, wants to "deliver a best in class network to serve the underserved African American community," The channel declared bankruptcy in March, but Allen intends to use the new...
Former NFL star Malcolm Jenkins is the founder of Broad Street Ventures, the first Black athlete-led venture capital fund. The two time Super Bowl Champion just invested in the first-ever whiskey made with grains solely from Black and brown farmers. Jenkins is now a board member and investor in Millstone Spirits Group, which just recently made a $1.4 million...
Tariq Trotter best known for being a MC of hip hop's influential band, the Roots is looking to path his way in the Venture Capital space. He began making angel investments, both as an individual and with other members of The Roots, but the idea of a more formal role intrigued him. It's a great thing to see!
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Master P's newest business venture is New Orleans styled snow cones, "LA Great Snow Cones". The product comes in seven flavors, and it's giving back to the community. Customers who purchase the sweet treat are also supporting Operation Smile, "Every time you purchase our LA Great Snow Cones, you are making a difference," Master P announced. Operation Smile provides...
Former MLB player Micah Johnson becomes the first NFT artist to secure a major television and film development deal. Johnson created "Aku", the world's first digital explorer. In less than one year the digital character generated more than $20 million in sales. Aku is an Black astronaut with an oversized helmet and a thirst for exploring. Johnson also runs...
With $40 Million in their latest fundraise, Black-owned hair extensions brand Mayvenn expands Walmart partnership. The fund was led by Cleveland Ave but heavy-hitters such as Goldman Sachs and Andreesen Horowitz's participated as well. Mayvenn aims to deliver a first class beauty experience for women.
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https://www.glossy.co/beauty/with-40-million-in-latest-fundraise-hair-extensions-brand-mayvenn-expands-walmart-partnership/
Steve Young; San Francisco 49ers legend, 3x Super Bowl winner and a master at raising capital, has seen more success in there boardroom. Recently completing a $2.54 Billion raise for his 4th fund and already putting that money to work. He Invest in the business sector, tech-enabled services, consumer, financial services and software & technology. Since launching in 2007,...
Former NFL receiver turned celeb golf influencer, Brice Butler (@brice_butler ), is making waves on the green. With an emphasis on introducing kids and people from different backgrounds to the game, Brice has become a household name in the world of golf. Like many pro athletes, Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, Larry Fitzgerald, to name a few, Butler took an...
NBA All Star James Harden is teaming up with Accolade Wines to release his first signature wine, "J-Harden", becoming available September 1st. The retail value is expected to be $16.99 and can be purchased online or in stores. Harden and his team will also have a role in the wine's creative direction, design, and style. The label will include...
LeBron James who signed to PepsiCo last year is set to lead the way in endorsing their brand LIFEWTR. “LeBron James’ unwavering dedication to uplifting individuals and communities mirrors our mission at LIFEWTR to help people thrive,” Zach Harris, VP of the water Portfolio at Pepsico.
“I’ve always loved LIFEWTR and how every detail – from the original art showcased...
Netflix has recently announced its latest sales and technology partner, Microsoft Corp. Netflix intends to rollout its (cheaper) ad supported subscription offering to help grow their user base as new subscriptions have slowed. Microsoft was the clear choice for partnership due to the $10 billion they generated from ad revenue along with their ability to innovate and privacy practices.
Beginning in mid 2024, Fanatics will begin manufacturing almost all of the Nike fan apparel for many of the sportswear prominent college partners. The two companies will share rights for a number of major schools as part of the deal, including Alabama, Florida, Clemson, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Replica jerseys, sideline apparel and headwear for many of the biggest NCAA...
Gaming-focused venture capital firm Konvoy Ventures has raised $150 million for Konvoy Fund III. Around 20% to 30% of the fund will go toward blockchain and crypto-related games. Konvoy plants to invest in gaming startups at various stages of development. The firm has also invested in Sipher, Genopets, and Ready Player Me.
Former United States Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is joining the incoming ownership group for the Denver Broncos. Rice grew up in Denver and received degrees from the University of Denver. In June, a group led Walmart heir Rob Walton agreed to purchase the Broncos for $4.65 billion. Rice will now join that group which also includes the chair...
The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Science has promoted Jeanell English to the newly created position of executive vice president, impact and inclusion. English will lead the Academy's initiatives designed to address underrepresentation across the industry. She will also oversee the Academy's talent development programs. Joining the Academy in 2020, English worked for more than a decade in...
Former NBA Superstar Tony Parker has teamed up with advisory firm NorthRock Partners, who currently has $4 billion in assets under its management, to create Northrock X, a personal office and suite of financial and lifestyle services to support athletes and entertainers. NorthRock X offers support and advice across investment advisory, financial literacy, marketing and branding, risk management, foundation...
Fashion brand Tom Ford has hired the services of Goldman Sachs for a sales process which would could result in the company being valued in the Billions.
Amazon recently inked an option deal that will allow them to acquire a 2% stake in food delivery service Grubhub. The option will give Amazon the ability to acquire up to 15% in Grubhub equity per Bloomberg. With the partnership in place, Prime users will gain a year long membership on Grubhub.
Derek Jeter and Director Randy Wilkins debuted a documentary series “The Captain” at the Tribeca Film Festival and is set for release July 18th on ESPN and ESPN+. The series Executive Producers include Spike Lee, Mike Tollin (“The Last Dance”), Mandalay Sports Media, in association with The Players Tribune.
“The Captain” is described as “a vessel to tell a...
Multitalented artist Zaria, star of Oscar winning short “Two Distant Strangers”, along side Joey Badass and series regular on HBO’s upcoming reboot of beloved series “Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin” is making her Directorial debut at the worlds largest short film festival “LA Shorts Fest” with her film “Irish Exit”. We are excited to continue our support of her limitless...
The Las Vegas Raiders announced the landmark hiring of Sandra Douglass Morgan as the team president. She is the first Black woman to serve as a team president in NFL history. Morgan called the role, "the honor of a lifetime to serve as president of this organization." She most recently served on the board of directors at Caesars Entertainment...
Mike Grier is set to be named the general manager of the San Jose Sharks, making it the first time a Black man will hold that position in NHL history. Grier spent 14 years playing in the NHL before retiring in 2011. His worked as an assistant for numerous teams around the league, most recently with the New York...
Jasmine Crowe's food waste management company Goodr has successfully closed on a Series A funding round of $8 million. Launched in 2017, Goodr utilizes technology and logistics to track surplus food within organizations and repurpose food to give to communities in need. In 5 years, the company has provided food to million of people and opened its first free...
Some may have forgot about Irv Gotti, the man behind The Murder Inc label, but he's making it known that his work is valuable. Irv Gotti inked a deal with the brand management company Iconoclast which is said to be worth $300 million. $100 million of the deal is for his Masters and the remaining $200 million is for...
The outstanding gymnast will be presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the Unites Staes. Biles is one of just six female athletes or coaches to receive the medal. She is being recognized for her activism on behalf of causes like mental health, foster care, and victims of sexual assault. She continues to open doors...
The Walt Disney Company announced the creation of they Disney Storytellers Fund at Howard University, which will create opportunities for underrepresented students to have future careers as storytellers and innovators in media and entertainment. The fund will provide students with a stipend over a five year period for projects focused on storytelling across a variety of media, including animation,...
Vegan lifestyle star and New York Times best-selling author Tabitha Brown will hose Food Network's first vegan cooking competition show. The show, "It's CompliPlated", will tasks four chefs in three rounds of cooking challenges. There will be a rotating panel of guest judges to taste and critique the plant-based cuisine. The show will air later this summer.
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Billionaire entrepreneur and Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has launched an online pharmacy, with game changing affordability.
The Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs Company (MCCPDC) is purchasing drugs directly from manufacturers and selling direct to consumers.
The online pharmacy prices generic drugs at a 15% margin on top of actual manufacturer prices and a $3 pharmacist fee oppose to the said...
The Indianapolis Colts All-Pro running back Jonathan Taylor has invested in muscle data company, Strive, which utilizes sensor-embedded clothing to monitor and maximize athlete performance. The company has recently raised $6 million in their series A round led by Future Communities Capital.
The National Football League announced a new partnership with Ice Cube's Contract with Black American Institute. The initiative is focused on economic inclusion for minority groups. The NFL has allocated $125 million for Black owned and operated businesses as part of the agreement, "I'm glad the NFL stepped up. They're the biggest and most powerful and most influential to...
Rap superstar Nicki Minaj is launching her own potato chip flavor with Rap Snacks. The Barbie-Que Honey Truffle Potato Chips are named after her fanbase. Rick Ross, Lil Baby, and Migos all have food and drink partnerships with Rap Snacks. The Black-owned business sells there products at Walmart and Sam's Club.
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David Highhall will insulate the game's integrity from potential gambling-related issues, among other responsibilities. Highhill was previously the league's VP of strategy and analytics.
The NBA was part of a $17 million funding round for social media company Zigazoo. The app targets children ages three to twelve and already has more than one million users. Zigazoo worked with the league around All Star weekend this year, encouraging kids to create basketball-related content. Other investors include tennis star Serena Williams and comedian Jimmy Kimmel.
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Mbappe at the age of 23 is far beyond his years. The NBA announced a multi-year content creation partnership with his created production company Zebra Productions to engage fans around the world. The partnership will bring soccer and basketball fans together around premium content by telling stories that matter.
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Elba, the sought out actor is looking to take his talents behind the camera with talks of him purchasing the UK Channel. Elba is in talks with Marc Boyan, a billionaire entrepreneur to spearhead the bid. It won't be an easy purchase with competition such as Warner Bros, Paramount, Comcast and more, but the duo seems to have a...
As we see most sports coming around with partnership with more brands targeting the culture and youth, who would have thought golf would make its way into the equation. The new line will have you looking good on the links as well in the streets. NBA legend JR Smith will be the face of the line.
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OBJ has invested in digital payments splitting platform Kasheesh, which has announced $5.5 million in funding. The company lets consumers split online payments across a combination of credit, debit and gift cards which will prevent shoppers from maxing out one of their cards.
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https://techcrunch.com/2022/06/23/kasheesh-fintech-startup-alternative-financing-bnpl-credit-debit-split-payments/
Yumi, the fastest growing kids health food and sciences company recently secured funding from some big name women in sports. Gold Olympic medalist Allyson Felix, WNBA stars Maya Moore, Breanna Stewart, Diana Taurasi, and Brittney Griner have invested in the brand. Started in 2019, Yumi has provided a healthier alternative in the baby food market and reportedly feeds 3%...
Number 3 ranked and five star USC commit Malachi Nelson has recently signed a NIL deal with hospitality and lifestyle brand The H.Wood Group.
ESPN is quoted stating Nelson is “expected to agree to nearly a million dollars in endorsement deals by the time he enrolls.”
How do you think NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities for high school and collegiate athletes...
Retired NFL star Marshawn Lynch has started a free, two-week online digital course to help students train for a career on the business side of sports or entertainment with the help of Overtime and Endeavor. The program, "Level Up: An Athlete Accelerator Program", will focus on serving current and former athletes as well as participants from historically excluded backgrounds.
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The former President and First Lady's media company, Higher Ground, has signed an exclusive, multiyear and global first-look deal with Audible. The slate of content from them "will reflect the companies' shared mission to tell meaningful and entertaining stories that elevate diverse voices and experiences," according to a recent statement. The Obamas' had a similar partnership with Spotify that...
Naomi Osaka the young tennis sensation is launching her own media production company, Hana Kuma with her agent Stuart Duguid, in partnership with Lebron and Maverick Carter's The SpringHill Company. Hana Kuma which means "Flower Bear" in Japanese intends to produce; Scripted and unscripted tv series, documentaries, anime, and branded content. The new production company "will produce stories that...
From Shark Tank success to inking a multimillion dollar deal with Whole Foods. In 2016 the Texas native, Mikaila Ulmer (at 11 years old) created her own lemonade brand 'Me & The Bees Classic Lemonade'. Starting off as a lemonade stand, Makaila found a way to expand her lemonade business and has done partnership with the biggest franchises.
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The Seattle Sounders sold a stake of 3% to 5% valuing the franchise at $680 million. The sale was sold to an unknown buyer and most likely sold at a discount because it brings no controlling interest in the club. The buy joins notable names involved such as Ken Griffey Jr., Russell Wilson & Ciara, Stay Nadella, Macklemore and...
Mondelez, the food giant and parent company of Toblerone, Oreos and Tang has acquired the energy bar maker Clif Bar & Company for $2.9 billion to expand its global snack bar business. Mondelez will also pay additional amounts to the seller upon earnings.
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Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz has created its third Cultural Leadership Fund with investments from some big name athletes like Patrick Mahomes, Bubba Wallace, Maya Moore, and Blake Griffin to name a few. The fund aims to "have a meaningful impact on building generational wealth for Black communities." First launched in 2018, the fund raised $60 million in investments,...
Running back Ezekiel Elliott and wide receiver Ja'Maar Chase have become brand ambassadors for Unicorn Hunters, an investment-themed reality television series. Players will use their social media platforms to promote investment opportunities highlighted by the show. Unicorns Hunters is available on Amazon Prime and similar to Shark Tank in that startup founders pitch their business ideas to a panel....
Lakers legend Magic Johnson announced an acquisition of new football and basketball franchises in SimWin Sports, the premier digital sports league. SimWin Sports is the first professional sports league where the teams are owned by sports legends, celebrities, and investors. Other team owners include Jerry Rice, Tracy McGrady, and LaMelo Ball.
Source: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220616005577/en/Earvin-
VersusGame, the gaming company that allows content creators to pose prediction contests to their followers/viewers who can win cash and prizes has raised a hefty Series A round. The company has created contests for Buzzfeed, Billboard, ESPN, UFC, Walking Dead and many more.
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https://venturebeat.com/2022/06/15/versusgame-raises-25m-for-mobile-gaming-platform/
A new sports-focused private equity firm is entering the field. Dynasty is looking to raise over $1 billion for professional team investments. The firm will be launched by Jonathan Nelson and Don Cornwell. Sports teams/leagues have been a hot industry for private equity firms.
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https://frontofficesports.com/new-sports-private-equity-firm-seeks-to-raise-1b/
If you are a current/past collegiate athlete you have used the platform teamworks to keep you on schedule and make sure you know where to be and when to be there. Founded in 2006 by a former Duke offensive lineman Zach Maurides. The company works with more than 4,000 college teams and 27 NFL teams as well as a...
The reported Multi-year agreement will see Apple Orginal Films and distribute the projects, with Nike's dedicated production label Waffle Iron Entertainment producing alongside content studio Makeready. They're looking to inspire the nest generation of athletes and celebrate the power of sports.
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Magic Spoon, the maker of better-for-you cereals has secured $85 million in Series B funding as three of its brands make a jump from DTC offerings to Target store shelves. With HighPost Capital leading the round, Magic Spoon saw a handful of celebrity investors come on board such as; Shakira, Russell Westbrook, Halsey, The Chainsmokers, Amy Schumer, Odell Beckham...
Little Caesars, the third largest pizza chain in the world, is now the official pizza sponsor of the National Football League. The deal includes exclusive marketing rights, new products, special packaging and promotion, and social media games. While the terms of the agreement were not made public, the Detroit-based pizza company brought in $4.2 billion in sales last year....
Major League Soccer and Apple have agreed to a media 10 year deal worth $2.5 billion. Every MLS and Leagues Cup match will be broadcasted via Apple TV Plus. The leagues current media deal with ESPN, Univision, and Fox are set to expire at the end of this season. Fans will have to subscribe to the streaming service in...
BaseballGenerations, a youth baseball instruction and recruiting camp organizer co-founded by Dom Smith launched a NFT marketplace to host training camps and showcase in under-resourced neighborhoods, and sales from its NFTs will support the company's community efforts.
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Spotify, the top music and podcast streaming services targeting consumers, ism making an acquisition of a voice AI company to expand its reach in audio technology.
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https://techcrunch.com/2022/06/13/spotify-is-acquiring-sonantic-the-ai-voice-platform-used-to-simulate-val-kilmers-voice-in-top-gun-maverick/
Mellody Hobson a 53-year-old businesswoman with an impressive resume is joining the ownership group acquiring the Denver Broncos. She currently serves as Chair of the Board of Starbucks Corporation and is also a director of JPMorgan Chase. It's amazing to see a Black Woman in an ownership position!
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https://www.theroot.com/mellody-hobson-set-to-become-part-owner-of-the-denver-b-1849036120
E. & J. Gallo Winery announced as official wine sponsor of the NFL. The partnership is uniquely structured to engage NFL fans and will include opportunities for local team activation, player imagery and appearances, on-site presence at premiere events, and broadcast, digital and social content from NFL kickoff through the Super Bowl.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/jabariyoung/2022/06/08/nfl-pours-new-alcohol-deal--with-ej-gallo/?sh=65dc998f48ec
Just Women's Sports, a media platform dedicated to women's sports has raised $6 million dedicated for more women athletes in the media space. JWS' athletic investors includes Billie Jean King, Allyson Felix, Abby Wambach, Sam Kerr, Lynn Williams, Paul Rabil and Apolo Ohno.
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https://afrotech.com/just-womens-sports-raises-6m-for-greater-representation-in-womens-sports-media-investors-include-allyson-felix?item=2
Jay-Z and Jack Dorsey have joined forces to launch a new financial literacy program called The Bitcoin Academy. The program will serve residents of the Marcy House project in Brooklyn, New York where the hip hop mogul was raised. Residents of the academy will receive a data plan, smartphone, and MiFi devices to help with the online and in...
The family foundation created by the founder of Starbucks and his wife plan to invest $100 million in diverse businesses and boost access to capital. Traditionally diverse entrepreneurs have a hard time raising capital and lack accessibility to VC's and the fund wants to change that narrative.
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LA Native and Dallas Mavericks star, Spencer Dinwiddie is changing the way athletes are being viewed. While still be a star in the league, Dinwiddie is also operating a web3 social media app which he just raised another round bringing in $26 million to allow fans to interact with celebrities and entertainers.
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https://afrotech.com/calaxy-founded-by-solo-ceesay-entrepreneur-nba-star-spencer-dinwiddie-raises-26m?item=1
After a great eight seasons in the league Vacarro made his choice to shift his career becoming the CEO of G1 (Game First). His early priorities is a focus on promoting good mental health. It's great to seeing ex-athletes doing things they're passionate about.
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NFL Superstar QB is taking his talents to the franchise world, opening his first Whataburger franchise in the greatest Kansas City region. He's part of a restaurant ownership group called KMO Burger, and the group has big plans to expand into 30 total Whataburger locations.
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https://arrowheadaddict.com/2022/06/07/patrick-mahomes-opens-first-whataburger-kansas-city/
Poizon, known as "De Wu" in Chinese, launched an app in 2015 offering information on the latest fashion trends and became an online marketplace two years later is now valued north of $10 Billion. ByteDance has excited a number of investments after a regulatory crackdown.
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Rachel Baker, formerly of Nike, has been hired as the first ever general manager for the men's program. She spent eight years at Nike and one year in the NBA before accepting this new position. According to the school, Baker will "specialize in helping players enhance their personal and professional skill sets, capitalize on strategic partnerships, including NIL opportunities,...
Religion of Sports also know as ROS, a sports media production company co-founded by Tom Brady, Gotham Chopra and Michael Strahan has raised $50 million in a Series B funding round. Shamrock Capital led the round with participation from Cerro Capital, Elysian Park Ventures and Advancit Capital. With new capital on the balance sheet they are interested in acquiring...
Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, parent company of the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils announced today that they have reached a deal to sell approx. 5% of the company to Arctos Sports Partners, a private equity firm.
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https://www.sportico.com/business/sales/2022/arctos-hbse-deal-1234676892/
One of the most iconic founder may soon be a owner of NBA's Portland Trail Blazers. Phil Knight and Dodgers Co-owner Alan Smolinsky have placed an offer to purchase the team for more than $2 billion. Though his initial offer was refuted, Phil has made it clear that he has his sights set on owning a team.
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The L.A Startup, Poparazzi is catching their stride. The IOS-only app has seen over 5 million installs in its first year with users primarily in the Gen Z demographic. The startup says that 75% of its users are between the ages of 14 and 18 and 95% of users are between 14 and 21. We are starting to see...
Frasers Group has bought online fashion retailer Missguided out of administration. Frasers, which also owns Sports Direct acquired Missguided's IP for approximately 20M in cash deal. Could this be a change within the fast-fashion realms?
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LeBron James has become the first active NBA player to have a net worth of $1 billion, according to Forbes.
It is not the dollar amount we praise, but yet the valiant and consistent pursuit of excellence not only only on the hardwood but as a businessman, philanthropist, public figure and Father.
James serves as representation of what one can achieve...
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert hopes to name one or two cities for new franchises by the end of this year at the latest. The new franchises could play by the start of the 2024 season. The Atlanta Dream was the last expansion team added to the WNBA back in 2008. There are currently 12 WNBA franchises, each team with...
LA's iconic basketball league 'The Drew' have left their long standing partnership with Nike to sign with their rivals Adidas. Adidas basketball is said to take over co-branding and sponsorship of the league. Interesting move! Are we witnessing a change in guard?
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https://www.nicekicks.com/the-drew-league-and-adidas-agree-to-multi-year-partnership-nice-kicks/
The Jonas Brothers are helping back a new subscription media company called Scriber that will allow celebrities to charge their biggest fans for exclusive content, sort of like if Cameo and Masterclass had a baby. The goal of the platform is to bring the subscription economy to Hollywood without the complexity of big tech platforms.
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It's one thing to purchase rare 'physical' kicks at a crazy high price, but to purchase virtual kicks is a whole different story. In April, Nike released its first collection of virtual sneakers, called Cryptokicks. One of sneakers were designed by the legend himself, Takashi Murakami and was recently purchased for $134,000.
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With the success of retro platforms such as QVC and the Home Shopping Network that together have 11 million customers (typically older) who spend roughly $14 billion buying product yearly, the new generation has found a way to copy that model to reach a younger demographic. Buywith is a live-streaming platform for brands, retailers, influencers, and experts to host...
Los Angeles Rams superstar defensive tackle Aaron Donald signs with Kanye West's Donda Sports Agency. Donald spoke on the "I Am Athlete" podcast about the new business adventure, "Hearing the whole spectrum of what they were going to be bringing, the whole family atmosphere that they got in Donda Sports. Not just me, but my wife being a part...
CJ McCollum has joined ESPN as an NBA Analyst and will make his debut on ESPN2 during the first game of the NBA Finals. In addition to television, the former Blazers player will work on a podcast for ESPN. McCollum will also provide analysis on SportsCenter, Get Up, NBA Today, and other programs. Draymond Green signed a similar deal...
Ones Basketball League is a one-one elite competition league that highlights the most skilled players on the planet, created by Hall of Fame Tracy McGrady. Today they announced a content partnership with SHOWTIME Sports, the news media distribution relationship for the startup league.
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https://www.sportsvideo.org/2022/05/27/tracy-mcgradys-ones-basketball-league-adds-showtime-as-new-content-partner/
With recent artist selling their catalog for big purchasing prices, Justin Timberlake is the latest music star to do so. He sold the rights to his song catalog to Hipgnosis Songs Capital, a fund backed by PE firm Blackstone.
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https://finance.yahoo.com/news/justin-timberlake-sells-rights-song-135605883.html
Dippin' Dots will be purchased by J&J Snack Foods which manufactures a wide variety of iconic snacks and desserts. J&J Snack Foods rakes in $1 billion profits annually with products like ICEE, Slush Puppy and Minute Maids frozen treats, so the purchase fits in well with their portfolio.
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Jordan Brand will be the new athletic sponsorship for Howard Bison teams in the upcoming school year. Howard currently has a deal with Under Armour, but that will expire this summer making room for Jordan Brand to outfit the HBCU student athletes. The HBCU joins the likes of North Carolina, Oklahoma, and UCLA as schools with Jordan Brand athletic...
Omorpho co-founded by former Nike executives has secured an additional $6 million to revolutionize training with micro-weighted sportswear. The recent funding brings the total investment in the company to $13 million with a $26 million valuation. The brand currently works with Julio Jones, Alex Mattison, DeeJay Dallas and many more.
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https://fashionunited.uk/news/business/gravity-sportswear-brand-omorpho-secures-6-million-us-dollar-investment/2022052563273
Take-Two Interactive has completed its acquisition of mobile game developer Zynga that is reported worth $12.7 billion. The deal will bring together two of the largest video game makers in the U.S. The purchase adds to another major acquisition in the gaming industry.
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https://frontofficesports.com/take-two-seals-12-7b-deal-with-farmville-maker/
EA's CEO recently held conversations with NBCUniversal about a takeover but the negotiations fell through due to price and the structure of the deal. That isn't stopping EA from looking elsewhere, the company is reportedly holding discussions with Amazon, Apple and Disney.
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https://finance.yahoo.com/video/electronic-arts-stock-rises-reports-142817007.html
SiriusXM finalizes its purchase of Team Coco, Conan O'Brien-led podcast network for $150 million. As part of the deal, O'Brien entered into a five-year talent agreement with SiriusXM. Podcast are holding strong with funding and acquisitions from bigger networks.
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https://variety.com/2022/digital/news/siriusxm-conan-obrien-team-coco-podcast-1235275077/
With at-home gyms seeing a decrease in sales, physical gyms are on the up and up. F45 training, an operator of fitness classes backed by Mark Whalberg generated $50 million in revenue in Q1 accounting for a 175% increase. Interesting enough, the results were driven by equipment and merchandising.
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Gopuff announced that they are bringing on former Disney CEO Bob Iger as an investor and advisor. Terms of his investment were not disclosed. Iger "believes consumer commerce will be very different in the near future and Gopuff is building the platform to power it"
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Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund beef'd up their gaming portfolio, investing in the most iconic gaming brand Nintendo. The fund is roughly $600 billion and they used $3 billion of that acquiring a 5% stake in Nintendo. It will be the third investment in a Japanese gaming company.
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The fight for equal sports pay for women is one step closer. U.S. Soccer announced that the women’s and men’s soccer national teams will be paid equally thanks to a new collective bargaining agreement. The agreement begin June 1st and will run through 2028, with all World Cup prize money combined between both teams will be split equally.
There will be a new era of Football Night in America this Fall. Maria Taylor will become the first female host of the NBC program, a spot previously held by Mike Tirico and Bob Costas. Taylor joined NBC last year after working at ESPN. When the news was announced, Taylor simply tweeted “Dreams Come True.”
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The Journeyman himself, Bismack Biyombo has made his way on many NBA teams but that hasn't altered his mission to be an impact both on and off the court. Donating millions to his native country, the Democratic Republic of Congo he didn't stop there and had a goal to fulfill. Biyombo also brought mental health awareness to NBA fans...
Months into serving as Creative Director at Bally, while simultaneously running his brand Rhude, Fashion juggernaut Rhuigi Villaseñor has announced yet another fashion forward move. Villaseñor has entered into a co-venture with Zara, to bring to life a new label RHU, which stands for Redesigning Human Uniform. With an emphasis on high end design, quality and affordability, when speaking to...
Oxefit, the startup that crowns itself as being the worlds smallest gym has raised $35 million from more celebrity investors. Existing investors includes Dan Prescott, Thaddeus Young, Matt Kemp, Dez Bryant, Jason Witten and now Jalen Ramsey & Dustin Johnson. With covid restrictions loosening up should be interesting to see how the "At-home gym" model stands.
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The four year old business is now getting the praise it deserves, with their new raise of $25 million, Slutty Vegan is now valued at $100 million. With the funding Aisha "Pinky" Cole (Founder) is looking to expand by opening 10 Slutty Vegan locations by the EOY and 10 more in 2023.
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Mathison closed on its $25 million Series A to find a solution to provide employers with an end-to-end Diversity, Equity and Inclusion hiring and retention platform. The new funding with be used to continue the build out data, analytics capabilities, scale, marketing and increase collective impact with employers. We love to see it!
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Naomi Osaka has left her agency, IMG to build her own agency with her agent Stuart Duguid, called Evolve. She will become the "first female athlete at that level to take full control of her business endeavors and attempt to build an agency," via Sportico. "I've spent my career doing things my way, even when people told me that...
In a new era we are seeing things such as digital art, not's, crypto and now smart dumbbells. Kabata is AI-powered weights that comes with an app as well and track workout metrics such as rep count, time, velocity, calories burned and much more. They have raised $2 million from investors that included Daniel Sturridge, Zaza Pachulia, Kirk Jacob,...
Vanilla, an estate planning fintech platform has raised $30 million. Vanilla is using technology to simplify the complex world of death planning in particular the financial part.
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Beat Exchange, A platform founded by Hit-Boy and UnitedMasters is aiming to make the process easier. A curated marketplace to buy and sell beats will allow for the music distributors independent artists to have the ability to still discover beats with specific sounds more efficiently.
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The Chernin Group agreed to lead a $263 million investment for 35% stake in the collectible toymaker Funko. Other members of the group included eBay, Bob Iger, Rich Paul and limited partners in TCG funds. Traditional toymaker with the win, surprise they didn't go the NFT route.
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Canal Plus unit is prepping for a bid for a stake in the Lions Gate, the studio owned by Starz. Reports said Canal Plus is seeking to bulk up amid fierce completion among streaming services.
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Shopify acquires Deliverr, a San Francisco, California based e-commerce fulfillment startup for $2.1 billion in cash and stock. The deal will be Shopify's biggest acquisition and said to enable the company to create an "end-to-end logistics" platform for millions of merchants.
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Kevin Durant has been named as a minority owner of the National Women's Soccer League club NJ/NY Gotham FC. Kevin and his venture firmed co-founded by Rich Kleiman becomes the third different party to acquire a stake in the club since March.
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The Vegan fast-food startup, Neat Burger owned by Lewis Hamilton has announced that they will be opening a permanent location in Manhattan New York. Leo will be coming on as a strategic investor to expand the brand awareness and expansion to more location in the states.
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Yuga Labs, the creator of Bored Ape Yacht Club launched a sale of virtual land deeds for their highly anticipated metaverse project. It got so chaotic Ethereum became congested with transactions that it broke the system.
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Both celebs are strong supporter of environmental causes. Recently investing in Cruz Foam, an eco friendly styrofoam alternative made from shrimp scraps. Cruz Foam already has a contract with Whirlpool. So this means no more messy 'peanuts' when you're opening packages.
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Digital media company, Vice Media has hired bankers to put the company up for sale. After failing to go public the company is looking to selling itself in parts to the highest bidder.
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Stripe will now offer the option of paying their users in cryptocurrency, with the first partnership being Twitter. Timing is everything! With Musk takeover he's already adding features to support their demographic.
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G-III Apparel Group agreed today to acquire the remaining 81% stake in Karl Lagerfeld becoming the sole owner of the brand. They expect the brand to represent more than $2 billion in retail sales.
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The ultra "low cost" airline rejected JetBlue's offer, saying it had a low likelihood of winning approval from government regulators.
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Oscar winning Director, EP and former collegiate hooper, Trayvon Free and Producer Samir Hernandez have teamed up with Director Frank Chi, to bring “38 At The Garden” to life. It is a documentary short surrounding Jeremy Lin’s whirlwind, inspirational 2011-2012 season with the New York Knicks and the social impact his ascent from anonymity to “Linsanity” placed on Asian Americans...
Lemon Perfect, a hydrating lemon water brand has closed its $31 million Series A funding today with the help of Mrs Lemonade herself, Beyonce. It's rare to hear Beyonce investing but we love to see it.
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Mattel is exploring a sale and has held conversation with buyout firms, including Apollo Global Management and L Catterton. Could be a potential $8 billion dollar deal.
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ASHOC Energy, an energy drink has completed their series B round raising $29 million. The round included some big stars that includes Aaron Judge, Freddie Freeman, Lexi Thompson, Brooks Koepka, Chase Young, Chase Elliot, Michael Strahan and more.
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Kevin Hart announced on Tuesday he is merging his Laugh Out Loud and HartBeat Productions to form HartBeat, a global, multi-platform media company. Private Equity firm Abry Partners invested a $100 million in the new company HartBeat.
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Copper, the company that targets users in the 10-19 year old range with debit cards and app experience has raised $29 million to expand their business. It incentives teens to save money by giving cash in exchange for hitting a savings goal or paying back parents on time.
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Tyson Foods announced an investment to provide free education for all U.S team members. Beginning this summer team members will have the ability to attain Master's, undergraduate and associate degrees all for free.
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Vaunt, a platform for athletes and entertainers led digital fan experience raised $5 million with investments coming from heavy-hitters in the sports world. Justin Tuck, Michele Roberts, David Levy and Los Angeles Dodgers affiliated Elysian Park Ventures.
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With companies such Uber, Airbnb, Wework being a hit, the 'sharing' economy is a hot space. TULU developed a smart tech platform that provides building tenants with on-demand access to hundreds of brand name appliances, grocery staples, micro-mobility solutions and entertainment devices to share. An on-demand rental platform of high-quality home products to reduce the cost of living.
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StatusPro announced that its NFL Pro Era will debut this fall on VR headsets as the first officially licensed NFL VR. The goal is to help fans experience what it's like to compete as the quarterback of their favorite team. StatusPro investors include LeBron James, Drake, Naomi Osaka, Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers and more.
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Bach an app that helps plan bachelorette trips has announced they raised $8 million in seed funding. The app is designed to help users plan a group trip with their friends from start to finish.
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Seattle-based Convoy, a digital freight network that connects shippers with carriers, has raised $260 million bringing the company's valuation to $3.8 Billion.
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Cheribundi, a performance wellness brand centered around the antioxidant power of tart cherries has brought on board a handful of athletes as investors and brand ambassadors. Investors include Deebo Samuel, Michaela Onyenwere, Tyrese Haliburton, and Lindsey Horan.
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Aunt Flow is not only filling a void in our system, but they are making sure that nobody ever has to choose between having the period products they need and buying food. Their plan is to make free, 100% organic cotton period products available in every public restroom.
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https://gritdaily.com/aunt-flow-raises-8-5-million-to-ensure-everyone-gets-the-period-products-they-need/
Billie Jean King Enterprises, The Los Angeles Dodgers, Elysian Park Ventures, and R/GA Ventures are launching a women and sports-focused venture studio called Trailblazer Venture Studio. Team work makes the dream work!
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Just Eat Takeaway is exploring a sale of Grubhub after purchasing the company during the height of the pandemic for $7.3 billion. Fast turnaround but Just Eat Takeaway are being pressured by investors and market cap.
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Marshawn is mostly known for his play on the field and his impressive interviews, but he has been in tuned with his business for some time now. Recently becoming a minority owner of the Seattle Kraken. Marshawn also is a NFLPA Chief Brand Ambassador, Oakland Roots owner, has is own apparel brand, has his own cannabis brand, has his...
Serena Williams makes strategic investment to expand Karat's program to aspire black engineers to diverse the tech industry. Only 5% of all software engineers in the US are black, and Karat is planning on changing that narrative.
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Stem, an LA-based distribution and payments platform for musicians and labels raised $20 million. We all know how there are so many moving parts in the music industry so stem is simplifying the process and making it more efficient. Quality Control invested in the round as well.
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Real, a mental health app has raised a oversubscribed Series B round at $37 million. The company prides themselves on creating diverse content for different communities, including LGBTQIA+, immigrants and people of color.
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Darrion Weems, Malcolm Smith and Shane Wilson sit down with Superbowl Champ TJ Ward and Bobby Carswell of Player Above Sports.
Ugami, a Miami based provider of a financial rewards solution for gamers, raises $4.8 million in seed funding. Leading the round was Harlem Capital Partners.
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https://venturebeat.com/2022/04/12/ugami-gamer-debit-card-and-app-launch-closed-beta/
The Lerner Family who purchased the Washington Nationals 16 years ago has began the process of exploring a sell of the team. The team said no options have been eliminated.
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Krispy Kreme is offering a dozen glazed doughnuts for the average price of a gallon of gas. That means the price will $4.11 starting for the next week, with the price resetting every Wednesday for the next four weeks. Great PR!
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Budding writer, director and producer KyLee Evans is making waves in entertainment as a staff writer on Disney’s reboot of “The Proud Family, Louder and Prouder”. KyLee has been writing for television since the age of 19, and has an impressive list of credits on her resume from writing sitcom episodes to creating and starring in her own sketch...
Epic Games closed their $2 billion round which was led by Sony Group and the family owned holding company behind the Lego Group. The fundraising is to help advance a metaverse partnership with Fortnite.
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The App crowned by GenZ's is making noise and said to be the hot new social media app. WIth so many apps out there fighting for the younger demographic, BeReal has pulled ahead by getting users not to overthink what they post.
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Genies is a startup that creates avatars for the metaverse has raised $150 million at a valuation above $1 billion. This comes after adding Bob Iger to their board.They continue to knock doors down.
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https://venturebeat.com/2022/04/12/genies-raises-150m-at-over-1b-valuation-for-metaverse-avatars/
Grooming products for women and men are seeing big investments these days. Scotch Porter CEO Calvin Quallis said the funding will go towards scaling and operations.
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https://www.happi.com/contents/view_breaking-news/2022-04-08/men-rsquo-s-grooming-company-scotch-porter-closes-/
Fanatics is slowing down anytime soon. Recently raising a $1.5 billion dollar round that was led by the NFL and all saw participants from the MLB and its owners, MLB Players Association, NFL Players Association, NHL and many more.
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PepsiCo announced it will add "Cracker Jill" to its Cracker Jack brand to celebrate women breaking down barriers in sports.
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Tom Brady is partnering with ESPN to launch the media giant’s first NFT with Autograph, Brady’s crypto agency. Autograph received a $170 million in Series B round, and $35 million in Series A from Sillicon Valley’s top investors. Autograph also has a huge athlete partnership including Tiger Woods, Simone Biles, Derek Jeter, Naomi Osaka, Usain Bolt, Wayne Gretzky and...
Usually when we talk about a tech company these days it's a highlight on how good the company is doing. In this case, Fast a company that was valued last year at over $500 million comes to a halt leaving around 450 people without a job and investors losing $120 million.
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Dave & Buster broken their reach with the purchase of Main Event a family entertainment company that will cater to a new target customer for the dinner and games venue. It will also boost their venues to 145 in North America.
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The 3-on-3 basketball league, co-founded by Ice Cube in 2017, will soon fractionalize team ownership with NFTs. Along with ownership, he also stated there will be many more perks included. Each of the 12 teams will have 1,000 total NFTs split between two tiers: 25 “Fire” NFTs at $25,000 per share, and 975 “Gold” NFTs at $5,000 per share. Will...
Through their Foundation, Eat. Learn. Play., where their mission is focus on three pillars of a healthy childhood: nutrition, education, and physical activity, the Curry’s announced plans to create 150 "Little Town Libraries" around Oakland in hopes to help plant the seeds needed to continue growing a culture of literacy. We love to see people of influence using their...
Part lifestyle website, part e-commerce company, Hypebeast will list their company on the Stockmarket through a SPAC. The company who investors comprise of Tom Brady, Naomi Osaka, Tony Hawk, Jonah Hill and many more will now see a valued company at more than $530 million after the investment.
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The tech savvy little brother is set to invests in the traditional big brother. The online luxury platform will head the department stores group's e-commerce services, as well as become a minority shareholder.
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Fast-Fashion is the new Unicorn. We've seen brands such as Fashion Nova raise at high valuations. Shein is in talks with General Atlantic to lead the round that will put the company at a $100 Billion valuation.
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Elon Musk recently purchased 9.2% of Twitter stock which makes him the largest shareholder to date in the company. When news hit, Twitter stock increased by 22%.
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With some questionable trades these past weeks coming from the Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes makes it an emphasis to secure the bag with great business opportunities. Recently Patrick becomes the face and key shareholder of Airshare, a private jet company.
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The pay for CEO's increased and on track to set a record amid a labor shortage. The rich get richer!
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Dr. Shaquille O’Neal and Steph Curry both added some new hardware to their already impressive trophy cases. Over the weekend, the two each won an Oscar for their role as Executive Producer on a documentary called “The Queen of Basketball”. The doc follows the story of Lusia Harris, the first woman ever drafted by the NBA. Congratulations to everyone involved!
Chief, A social network for professional women in senior leadership positions raised $100M in Series B funding at a $1.1 Billion valuation. Love to see women focused companies become Unicorns.
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With the rapid growth in freelance work Archie is solving a problem that is focusing on financial infrastructure for the freelance economy. With everybody wanting to be their own boss and having side hustles are more appreciated now-a-days, it's the perfect timing for Archie.
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The company known for their TV ratings is being purchased by private equity consortium for $16 billion, including debt. The price was a 60% premium over there stock price.
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New York based Kaiyo lands big round running an online marketplace for used furniture. With the demand for furniture being so high, they found a way to corner the market.
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https://techcrunch.com/2022/03/29/kaiyo-raises-36m-series-b-for-its-second-hand-furniture-marketplace/
Classplus has raised $70 million to help educators and content creators build and sell online courses. Similar to Masterclass, Classplus is targeting more into the educational piece. It will be interesting to see how they navigate "post-covid".
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The 2021 biggest investments crazes seems to be slowing down. NFT's are a fraction of what they were at last year's peak. Could it had been a phase? Or have we yet to see their true lasting application?
Check out the graph:
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Gated a startup looking to keep your inbox clean has raised over $3 million to attack a problem of spam emails. Here's how it works: For unknown senders, they will be directed to donate to a non-profit of your choice in order to make it in to your inbox. A pretty cool way to do good and keep away unsolicited...
MLB has agreed to a deal with Capital One reportedly worth $125 million over 5 years. The agreement with the MLB will be Capital One's second sports-related deal this year.
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The adult content platform is looking to make a splash going public. As it failed to raise outside capital from investors because of their explicit content, the next move is to IPO.
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Kale helps connect brands with their authentic superfans and reward them for promoting the product. Their mission is to empower creators to translate their social value into monetary value.
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Some may not know, but Andre Iguodala has a well diverse investment portfolio. Adding to it, he's leading the round raised by 'Players Health' which provides insurance and risk management services to youth sports organizations.
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Snapchat is purchasing NextMind, a Paris based startup, which utilizes brain signals to move images on a PC interface.
Check out the video! It's pretty cool:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RR7tHXV14xk
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The creator of the most talked about NFT (Bored Ape Yacht Club) raised $450 million at a $4 billion valuation. It will be interesting to see where NFT's go from here.
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Banking app, Dave gets big investment from FTX Ventures and also struck a strategic partnership for any crypto offerings.
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As you see the NFL is far ahead in annual revenue from media rights. Still raises the question regarding guaranteed contracts for their players.....
FaZe Clan, one of the biggest global Esports companies has added some heavy hitters to their board before they IPO. New FaZe Clan board members include:
Stephanie McMahon, Ross Levinsohn, Zach Katz, Snoop Dogg.
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A trend we at FTB can get behind. Top TikTok influencers are making their way to the venture capital space. Recently, we've seen athletes & entertainers in the space, but it's a new territory for "social media" stars.
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Qualcomm will provide the funding to businesses and developers in the Metaverse space. They are looking to diversify their technology portfolio.
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The top rowing-machine company Hydrow has raised $55 million in a series D funding round. With the new funding the company raised a total of $255 million. The company's revenue tripled its revenue.
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https://frontofficesports.com/hydrow-reaches-255m-in-total-funding/
General Motors is acquiring Softbank’s equity ownership stake in Cruise’s driverless car unit for $2.1 billion.
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Amazon has closed its $8.5 Billion acquisition of MGM. The deal will complement Amazon's Prime Video and Amazon Studios. It makes one of their biggest acquisitions yet.
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The rapid growing racing series, Formula 1 opens the eyes of the U.S. Market. With the notoriety of the Netflix series, "Drive to Survive", F1 said it has over 36 million fans in the U.S. making it one of the fastest-growing markets.
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Former Disney CEO and Chairman Bob Iger is investing and taking a seat on the board in Genies, a new company that allow users to create their own custom digital avatars.
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AMC Entertainment Inc. is buying 22% of gold and silver mining company (Hycroft Mining Holding Corp.) Very interesting move for an entertainment company in the movie sector.
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Yuga Labs, The NFT company behind Bored Apes Yacht Club, acquired the rights to CryptoPunks and Meets collections. CryptoPunks and Bored Apes are the world's most valued NFT collectors to date.
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The icon herself is working with Goldman Sachs Group and Morgan Stanley to take her Savage X Fenty brand public.
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Mojo, the investment app that touts themselves as a "stock market" for professional athletes raised $75M. Led by Thrive Capital, A-Rod and his business partner Marc Lore, who also have stake in the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx.
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The platform that provides information, leads, and contacts for investors to those seeking funding just raised $100M in a series B round evaluating the company at $4B.
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Savings and investing app raised $300M in their series F funding. Bringing their valuation to a nearly $2B! How soon will they go public?
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MLB and Apple made it official with rights agreement. Details regarding how much Apple is paying hasn't come to light, but it has to be a great revenue stream for the MLB.
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Recur adds NBA stars Ja Morant, Klay Thompson, Carmelo Anthony, and many more athletes to their new college-centric platform for NFT's.
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Cybersecurity firm is set to receive a big payday from Google. The purchase indicates the rise in cyber attacks.
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Portland-based, Black Founders Matter closed its first fund investing in Black founder-led companies.
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Warren Buffett has acquired roughly 10% in Occidental Petroleum. It makes three different investments in the oil producer.
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If the Broncos and Seahawks swap picks for the Super Bowl winning QB, it would be a welcomed addition for the Broncos organization that has struggled to find success since the retirement of Peyton Manning. But more importantly, the Broncos are slated to sell for $4 Billion and the NFL reportedly wants the new ownership to be fully capitalized,...
The 175 year old Associated Press has announced they will be partnering with Xooa to create a NFT marketplace. Users will have the option to buy, sell and trade The APs contemporary and historical photojournalism on the Polygon blockchain.
Apple is thinking of signing a deal that includes NFL's available media rights as well as a stake in NFL Media.
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The Goat has raised funds in the 9 figures for her new Venture Capital firm. The firm will invest in founders with diverse backgrounds.
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John Foley, the founder of Peloton has sold stock to investment firm MSD Partners. The struggling fitness company is looking for new life under new CEO.
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Fanatics has raised $1.5 billion in a new round of funding bringing its valuation to $27 billion!!!! The company has been on an acquiring spree, buying companies in the sports memorabilia space.
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The platform that is a mixture of social networking and Airbnb has raised their seed round that was led by Freestyle Ventures.
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Underdog Fantasy, a company that is backed by Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban, and Jared Goff will be the premium content sponsor for Football Outsiders.
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KYX World is a company that allows individuals to rent premium kicks. Recently raising a $3 million seed round led by SeventySix Capital they also attracted funding from professional athletes.
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Sports memorabilia is continuing its soar! Multiple world records were set this week by Heritage Auctions. From Jack Robinson's debut game tickets, to Air Jordan 1s worn by MJ himself.
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Netflix acquirers Next Games for $72 million based in Finland. Next Games is the publisher of 'Stranger Things and 'Walking Dead' games. This purchase will strengthen their gaming arm.
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Justin Smith, the former head of Bloomberg Media and Ben Smith, the former New York Times media columnist are in search for $20-30 million to launch their news organization.
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Disney will announce new deal with Samba TV to provide alternate data to Disney's advertisers. Samba is the the first third-party vendor that Disney named as a partner.
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Weee! the online grocer secured big round of funding specializing in ingredients for Asian and Hispanic cuisines.
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Neil Diamond sells his entire catalog to Universal Music Group for an undisclosed amount.
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Derek Jeter and The Marlins mutually agreed to part ways. Jeter is reportedly planning to sell his 4% in the team, that's worth around $40 million.
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Meta is exploring a partnership with INFLCR to provide resources to college athletes. It's uncertain how the partnership is structured but it will gives NIL athletes insight on content creation to better their brand and finances.
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Authentic Brands Group purchased 55% stake of David Beckham's brand management firm. The deal is reported worth $269 million! (Not a bad payday)
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A lengthy battle over gender equity between the Soccer Federation and the U.S Women's team have reached a $24 million settlement.
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Boston Celtics co-owner (Stephen Pagliuca) has acquired 55% of Serie A club Atalanta B.C. valuing the Italian soccer club at $566 million.
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Like his character in the show 'Ballers' Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson continues to make big things happen off-screen. Signing a deal with the NFL making the XFL a live research and development lab for the league.
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As fan favorite “Wild ‘N Out” celebrates the momentous accomplishment of 300 episodes of improv comedy, rap battles and pop culture. The show, executive produced by Nick Cannon, Nile Evans, Michael Goldman and Candida Boyette-Clemons, has announced they will be partnering with Super League Gaming for “Wild ‘N Out: Metaverse Remix” beginning Feb. 22.
Stoner Cats, said to be the first NFT based show of its kind. Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher are looking to flip the existing model on its head. The goal is to connect storytellers directly with their core audience, creating a decentralized production ecosystem, bringing ownership back to creators.
The animated series includes characters voiced by Kutcher, Chris Rock, Jane Fonda...
The company formally known as Facebook took a dive this last month. Once having a valuation of over $1 trillion seen its worst monthly stock decline ever.
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Celebrity invested company, Fanatics, known for its athletic apparel, is acquiring nostalgia brand, Mitchell & Ness for $250 million.
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A unique pairing is teaming up to for a winner take all video game tournament to bring more awareness to HBCUs. The tournament will feature past and present NBA players and Call of Duty content creators, teaming up with HBCU students to compete for a $10,000 prize.
The Goat himself is taking no time in his new venture. Tom Brady's production (Religion of Sports) company is looking to raise $50 million which would value the company at $100 million.
Reported 56,000 Americans have lost $547 million in love-bait scams in 2021. With blockbuster shows/documentaries such at The Tinder Swindler & Inventing Anna we now see why Netflix made it an emphasis to showcase.
Baseball HOF is the lead investor in a group buying Trump Hotel in Washington D.C. A-Rod is not new to real estate Investing, he founded Monument Capital Management in 2003 which has made over $750 million in property acquisitions.
Is it here to stay or are big budget ad campaigns here to generate hype!I couldn’t help but notice something interesting about this years Super Bowl. Something that seemed new and out of the ordinary watching Americas biggest sporting event. It wasn’t the A-list celebrities in attendance. And it wasn’t the fact that Tom Brady was missing from this...
Microsoft is in talks to buy Mandiant to boost cybersecurity for their clients. As of recent we've seen big tech companies ramp up their acquisition spree.
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https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-02-08/microsoft-is-said-to-pursue-deal-for-cybersecurity-firm-mandiant?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosprorata&stream=top
CEO of Allen Media Group, Byron Allen is preparing a bid for the Denver Broncos. If successful would make him the first ever Black Majority owner.
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https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-02-08/media-mogul-byron-allen-says-he-ll-bid-for-nfl-s-denver-broncos?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiossports&stream=top
WHOA! All of a sudden the screen I’m using to write this segment seems so miniscule. Let me tell you about my first experience in the metaverse.
So I got an Oculus Quest 2 as a Christmas gift from my wife and I was so hyped! I’d tried one of my teammates’ at the hotel the night before the...
Breadcrumbs ep. 1- Malcolm Smith, Darrion Weems, LaMonte Evans and Shane Wilson sit down with TV legend Bentley Kyle Evans.
Breadcrumbs ep. 2- Malcolm Smith, Darrion Weems, Shane Wilson and LaMonte Evans, sit down with long time friend and E! News: The Rundown host and personality Erin Lim Rhodes.
Breadcrumbs ep. 2- Malcolm Smith, Darrion Weems, Shane Wilson and LaMonte Evans, sit down with long time friend and E! News: The Rundown host and personality Erin Lim Rhodes.
